Pilgrim Rigging - thread painting by fiber artist Loretta Alvarado

California Coastal Series

Pilgrim Rigging

Artwork Details

Technique: Thread Painting
Dimensions: 18" wide x 28" high
Collection: California Coastal Series
Availability: Framed Original

Pilgrim Rigging - reference photo for thread painting by fiber artist Loretta Alvarado

This piece depicts the beautiful tall ship Pilgrim, which was berthed in Dana Point, California, for many years. Rather than portraying the entire ship, I was drawn to the intricate network of rigging, lines, and spars that gave her so much character.

I photographed the Pilgrim several years before she unexpectedly sank at her berth in March 2020. At the time, I had no idea the images would one day become a record of a ship that would no longer exist.

Looking back, I'm especially grateful that I took those photographs. They allowed me to preserve a small part of the Pilgrim's story in fabric and thread.