[2014 Symposium registration opens June 23 at 10am.]

2014 Maiwa Textile Symposium

Workshop The Stitch that Tells a Story (offered twice0

Janet Bolton

$295 includes 50 lab fee

First Class - September 14, 15 - Class Limit 15

Second Class - September 16, 17 - Class Limit 15

Maiwa Loft: Above the Net Loft, Granville Is. Vancouver BC

Cloth and stitch combine with a deceptive simplicity in this workshop taught by UK textile artist Janet Bolton. 

Famous for her evocative textile pictures that convey the feeling of storybook illustrations, Janet aims to give each student the confidence to work directly with the fabrics at hand. That is, with an idea in mind, the student will select textures and colour combinations from available fabrics rather than working out a composition in another medium (painting or drawing) and then attempting to transpose that concept into fabric.

The class will discuss compositional ideas, subject matter, and the choice of suitable materials both old and new. Students will explore the idea of allowing the composition to develop and change as the work progresses, emphasizing the wonderful freedom and directness this way of working allows—right to the very last stitch. Janet will demonstrate “needle turning” techniques used to finalize the shape of the different components, the placing of those components, and the use of thread as a drawn line.

Janet will bring originals of her own work and a selection of pieces at different stages of development. She will also have various pieces that in her opinion have not been successful; these have led to many an interesting discussion!

The actual techniques are very simple: hand sewing at all stages. Each student will be given as much individual help as they need, particularly at the early compositional stage. After the general introduction, the whole emphasis will be on individual tuition.

The workshop will include advice on presentation of work, including framing, and will end with a group discussion on the works produced.