Friday, August 20, 2010

Aisha Butterfly

I made this picture my profile picture on facebook and much to my surprise to I got an overwhelming response. People were writing about it daily. I wasn't sure if it was the quilt, me or the composition. I suspected it was the composition because I had posted the quilt by itself previously and it got no mention.
My daughter took the picture and she called it Mama Butterfly. I vaguely remember her saying let's take the picture in front of this quilt. Then she said move over just a little. I had no idea I was lining up with the body of the butterfly and replacing it with my body. How interesting.
The quilt is called Metamorphosis. I had this idea that the metamorphosis of a thing encompassed the coming together of many different facets. So I collected several colors of fabrics to symbolize the many facets. I knew what fabrics I wanted to use, but had no idea how the different colors would all come together to give a cohesive look. As I started to put it together I saw that a spot of red could bring it all together. Many quilters shy away from reds and golds but I embrace them. I wanted that butterfly to burst out of it's cocoon in full brilliance. Red did that. I didn't overwhelm it with red but dipped a little of it here and there.
I used a crazy quilt vibe and explored the development of my own technique for putting it together. I did some ruching, some beaded embellishments, some fabric painting, buttons, sequins, some lace trim, hand quilting and lots and lots of love.
I think that is what people see, the love.

4 comments:

Carol said...

Girl you got it going on in this picture. It's not just the quilt, it is "YOU". You almost look like an angel with part of the butterfly looking like wings. You had a great idea here.

Dee J. said...

I love the "Aisha butterfly." The metaphor of transformation takes on an even greater meaning with you there. Intriguing.

aisha said...

Thanks Carol and Dee J.

dls said...

I love the composition and the colors..... it's just lovely and so are you! Thanks for sharing your creations.