Beyond the Series
Hearts Afire
Artwork Details
Technique: Constructed Textile
Dimensions: 36" wide x 24" high
Collection: Beyond the Series
Availability: Ready to hang fiber art
While doing an art show near my mother's home in Arizona, she volunteered to help. Rather than letting her sit around waiting for customers, I put her to work wrapping the frame for this piece.
A local newspaper photographer happened to stop by and took her picture while she was working. When the article appeared, it gave her credit for creating the artwork!
I couldn't even be upset. She had certainly earned part of the credit.
The Inspiration
A Little Help from My Mom
Like Pieces of a Dream, this artwork began with a title.
The image grew from the idea of fire—reds, oranges, and yellows layered together to create the feeling of dancing flames. I first created a complete textile, then cut it apart and reassembled the pieces on a fine netting. This time, the shapes were cut to echo the movement of fire itself.
Hidden within the flames are seven hearts. There's no secret symbolism behind the number—seven simply happened to be the right number to fit the composition. I always enjoyed inviting visitors to my booth to see if they could find them all.
The frame became part of the artwork as well. It was wrapped in fabric to complement the piece and complete the presentation.