Saturday, December 22, 2012

The most amazing thing!

One of my favourite experiences in life, is that unexpected and deeply fulfilling interaction with someone I just met...those connections that make you pause and remember that we ARE the same, in our desires, pain and love...

Yesterday, as I was stocking my space with two new pieces, I had such an encounter, and the fact that it centered around my art made it all the more profound.





















After placing the embroidery on my shelf, I had gone over to chat with another artist, and noticed a lady was at my display looking at my wares.  A minute later she came up to me, and asked with tears in her eyes, "Did you make this?"  She was holding the "You are enough" canvas in her hands.  I told her I did, and started to tear up too!  I hugged her, as she went on to thank me and as tears rolled down her cheeks.  I had to know why these words touched her so deeply, and she told me that her dear friend had just left an abusive relationship.  This gift was the perfect thing for her at this pivotal time in her life.  I was so touched that a message I embroidered (let's face it~ I made it to remind myself!) could resonate so deeply and actually make a difference for other people.  THIS is why making art is so incredibly satisfying....!

My intention now is continue making these Mirror Messages, with various uplifting words on them, so we can be reminded of our greatness, our capacity to make a difference, and to shine our bright lights!


Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Ho ho stockings!

So, the other day I accidently ordered some natural cotton lining instead of cotton batting from my upholstery supplier...and it's turned out to be a happy mistake!  I am absolutely loving this material, in it's raw and simple state.  And since Christmas is upon us, I thought I would get busy and create some stockings out of it, while using bits & pieces of colourful fabrics to add contrast and colour.

I really appreciate the natural touch of cotton, and naturally, they are available at the Arts Market, 1114 Queen St. E!

it's hard to tell that the one on the end is a beautiful green velvet and soooo soft!

I took these ones to the next level by making them reversible.
How perfect is this fabric for a candy-cane?! :)



Monday, December 3, 2012

Pillow Heaven

Yes, the title says it all: I am in pillow heaven!

For weeks now, I've been staring at the stack of blank feather-filled pillow inserts in my studio, and they've been staring back at me, just begging for me to make them some new clothes.  I'll admit it- I had big plans for these pillows, and I think I was intimidated by how amazing I knew they could be...so I avoided the task altogether.

Saturday night was the night.  I was finally prepared to dive into the challenge of pillow-dressing.  I told myself, "Jac, nothing is permanent!  If they don't meet your expectations, no one will ever have to know!"  That thought did the trick.  I started playing with some luxurious fabrics, and after a few snips and a few stitches, I ended up with these beauties!


soft linen back
As much as I am in love with them,  these pillows are available for adoption at the Arts Market.