Friday, June 23, 2006

Studio Friday theme: family...


Family history, things that have been passed down from one family member to the next, family values, all influence me as an artist, whether I'm consciously aware of it or not.

I wonder how others are influenced or inspired by their families---either past or present. What family treasures might be found in others' studios?"
-- Ellen


I have dozens of family influences in my studio, but I chose to feature my all-time favorite piece - a sewing cabinet that my paternal grandmother, "Dambi" made as a young girl. She passed this on to me when I was in my 20s, and I've treasured it.
"Back then," she told me what seemed like millions of times, "we didn't have tv or video games, so we had to be creative to pass the time."

In addition to being impressed with her craftsmanship as a young girl-- carpentry, upholstery tacks, hinges and sewn pockets, to name a few -- I always loved the array of "stuff" inside, much of which I have not changed over the years... colorful wooden thread spools, carded needles, jars of buttons, and scraps of felt and fabric. I love the promise of creation that they symbolize, and their colorful chaos.

9 comments:

Anonymous said...

This was also one of my favorite things growing up. I loved to use it to play store. I sold a lot of zipppers and thread over the years. Great Blog Sisser!!!! It's brings back a lot of memories!

Dawn said...

I have one of these...given to me by an elderly friend who was a wonderful seamstress...There were many vintage sewing treasures left inside..and some are still there even after I had to redo all the fabric..I keep them there to remind me of Ethel.
Great post..

Ellen said...

What a wonderful gift, filled with memories!

Lisa said...

That is truly a treasure. You are very lucky!

Bonita Rose said...

what a wonderful thing to have.. truly so special...
lucky you!

Debbie said...

Just wonderful! I love that case and all it symbolizes and you did a great job presenting it - as always!!

Anonymous said...

I love your cabinet. Both of my grandmothers were wonderful seamstresses. I have oddments from them as well as the memory of their skill.

Going For Greatness said...

This is SUCH a gorgeous cabinet! What a wonderful keepsake AND it's usable!!
Thanks so much for sharing!!
~Gabi

Anonymous said...

What a wonderful, memorable and just downright gorgeous treasure. I am DROOLING!