A New Challenge…

August 1, 2025

A couple of months ago I began a different type of challenge, one that included the clear message, “I AM LISTENING” or “I am listening to you”. I finally reached a point where I resorted to using words instead of symbols. This lead to strip-piecing different heights and widths of fabric, then using fabric markers to unleash a stream of words, parts of conversations, and the phrase, ‘I am listening’. I also included numerous encouraging phrases as a lot of the people I’ve met over the years need encouraging, kind, or empowering words. Many of us have buried hurts that remain hidden from the world at large, but nevertheless carry with them everywhere they go.

Pictured here is the stage where all of the writing was complete and I thought it looked too stark, so covered it in a mix of 1/2 Fabric Medium and 1/2 acrylic gold paint. Once it was dry for a couple of days, I laid large stencils on it to see what steps to take next. This wasn’t just an improv piece, it was becoming an entirely new experiment in creativity. Next I thought about silk organza and we’ll see where that goes next. Keep you posted!

Beth