I began with plain wrapping tissue paper and facial tissue. Each layer is brushed with a diluted white glue. I was wanting to suggest a birch tree, so added a cool black and white striped tissue paper in the second-to-last layer of tissue. I tore it into small pieces, twirled it in my fingers and placed it on the wet layer.
I wanted to create texture, so there are bits of dried flowers (included in the kit), black pepper, and fine metal shavings included in the layers. They have provided the desired texture as well as color.
I am the original Impatient Artist. I couldn't wait the several days that it may have taken for the piece to dry, so I laid it on the heating register. What was cool about this is that the forced air from the heating duct, made the edges dry faster than the center, and subsequently, the center became more rounded---more like an actual piece of bark! That was serendipitous to say the least.
Where the paper was dry, the pastels created the spots, and where it was still wet, I used my finger to blend the color for a shadow.
I will be combining this with another experimental piece that I started a couple of weeks ago in a Cutting Bee that I helped organize. Yesterday was spent making background and doing a lot of thinking on how to combine this paper element into the fabric background.
Most of my art quilts are the result of playing with new techniques and incorporating unusual materials. TARTS keeps me focused and prompts me to produce at least one small piece most months.
When was the last time you played? Just for the fun of experimenting and seeing what will happen?
Find time to feed your soul with inspirational books and great websites.
Ta Ta for now,
Peggy