What is it about pattern that is so seductive? Perhaps it’s that its regular rhythms lure us into a sense of comfort through the predictability of repetition. Or could it be the visual jolt that keeps us on our toes as we bump into the places where those rhythms break with a change of direction, color, or image?
This week I have been working up a sample piece for a workshop I will soon be presenting for a group of high school art students. Without being sure what their previous stitching experience (or even exposure) has been, I am planning to concentrate on the deceptively simple running stitch.
Like following the dashes of the broken white line down the middle of the road to destinations unknown, I hope they will become excited by the wide scope of pattern-making possibilities to be found by simply drawing a thread up and down along a line.
The running stitch has a rich history around the world, represented in part by Kantha embroidery of eastern South Asia, Japanese Sashiko, and traditional American hand-quilting. Numerous contemporary artists, such as Christine Mauersberger, Sue Stone, and Mary Ruth Smith, (and even yours truly) continue to mine its possibilities in their work, offering plenty of inspiration to set any budding stitch artist on her way.
Beyond that, by having them concentrate on the most basic of stitches, my main goal is that the students will come away with a better understanding of the truism that I depend upon so heavily in my own practice: Limitations, self-imposed or otherwise, often provide our greatest opportunities for growth and creativity.
Running stitch sampler ©2018 Elizabeth Fram, 10 x 10 inches, Thread on canvas
Several artists I admire who use pattern to great advantage are Jane Newland, Eleanor Annand, Emily Barletta, and Arounna of Bookhou. Who would you recommend?
On a Different Note______________________________________________________________________________
Looking for a great non-fiction read that has nothing to do with art? Try Lab Girl by Hope Jahren, a funny, poignant memoir of a scientist who just happens to write beautifully. It’s my latest favorite.
Lovely piece. Lucky students! Can’t wait to hear more about this project. Yes to “Lab Girl,” though it IS wacky! My advice is to just hang in with it and read it all—not long and well worth the trip.
I’m looking forward to the workshop & think it will be fun. Hope they do too!
I can’t wait to hear what the students do with the running stitch.
Hopefully they’ll agree to some photos…
Hurray Betsy! Running stitch — beauty of its own says the threaded needle gal! You will be an inspiration to your young students. Good luck!
Thanks Kathy – I’m hoping they’ll get excited about the vast possibilities from such a humble stitch.
Lovely! I am in love with the running stitch too. I have been working in my music inspired stitching that has elements in it that was inspired by your stitching and dyeing!
I love your contemplative posts and links! Thank you Elizabeth!
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Hi Donna, Thank you so much for the kind words and for following! I am now following you on Instagram – lovely Van Gogh inspired piece!
Simplicity, pattern, limitations. So much covered well and succinctly in your posting. Once again, I’m inspired by your thoughts, process and the stitched piece you’ve shared. The students are so fortunate to have you as a their instructor! Enjoy the workshop. (Regarding pattern, I recommend El Anatsui’s work.)
El Anatsui…great suggestion! Thanks for the words of encouragement, much appreciated. I’m glad I had your brain to scratch from the beginning.