Textile Art Stick Dolls

There has been so much on lately, what with exhibitions, markets and my workshops. Im sure everyone is a little crazy at the moment with ( I dont want to know, how many days there are until Christmas ) and everything else. My eco prints, natural dyed scarves have been selling well at the events I've attended. Due to the time it takes to collect plants, harvest and prepare them, these are continually ongoing, regardless of whatever else I might be making at the time. I will be off to Melbourne to do my 3 day workshop with India Flint this week, which is very exciting! I've included some of my eco print scarves here.

  

Now Ive, digressed a little, so unlike me , I know ( lol ) back to my stick dolls. I had the wonderful opportunity to attend a class at the Contemporary Craft Retreat where I was teaching in October with the gorgeous artist, Wilma Simmons. In this class , Wilma taught us how to make stick dolls which are also message sticks. This is a ritual with a long history. The idea of making something that was not only beautiful but had a deep meaning for the recipient was very appealing to me. Messages are attached to the doll via a tag that gets tied on to the base of the doll if you want this. Since then, Ive been happily creating my dolls, which keep leaving home at a rapid rate. They do make a unique gift. If you are stuck for a Christmas present maybe I can help. Here's a few photos to show you some of my girls. Several people have contacted me wanting a doll or two so I am now doing mail orders.

Im contactable at www.studioamara.com.au.

Enjoy, Kathy

 

Our first weekend at The Arts Trail

I was privileged to spend the weekend with 3 very talented artisans at Margaret Connor's studio, Duckpond Cottage. Margaret's studio with its luscious gardens, is the perfect setting for the four of us to display our varied talents for the Southern Highlands Art Trail event. Margaret is a feltmaker who uses natural fibres to create beautiful one off garments, scarves, wraps and wall pieces. Also showing is Mike Darlow, a woodturner who concentrates on functional turnings. Mike's work has been featured in major American, Chinese collections, The Powerhouse Museum and Rockhampton Gallery in Australia. Carol Bairnsfather, makes stunning felt hats and mixed media jewellery.

Our exhibition wil be running again on the weekend of November 12 and 13 from 10am till 4pm. On Sunday we are holding another fashion parade at 1pm. Duckpond Cottage is at 13A Hurlingham Avenue, Burradoo. Phone is 4861 2294.