Paint on Paper

I've been doing some freeform painting with black gesso and watercolor. I learned this particular technique at a workshop I too with Laura Wait at Penland. We used all kinds of twigs, rocks and other found brushes to make marks on paper. It was one of the most freeing classes I have ever done.

I made some papers last night and then folded them into signature and made a little artist book. I still need to sew it together but wanted to show you my process.

Painted papers:

Freestyle embroidery

I took some cotton fabric, needles and embroidery floss with me to Mexico to practice handwork. I didn't use a pattern, just played with colors and shapes. I started with the palm tree, then waves and sun. I was inspired by the colors I was seeing and also the shapes of fruit in the market so I began stitching some freeform circles and oval shapes. I call it "doodling with thread".  This was a great project for airplanes and the beach. It doesn't take up much room and the whole deal fits easily in a purse or beach bag. So fun! I want to continue now that I'm home.