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Art Therapy

Yesterday, I spent some time adding the 3rd layer to one of the round robin collages. I told the group that I might be very tardy and not sent mine in until later this month because of the death of me sister–in-law. But, I had an idea and it really was therapeutic to be in the studio, playing with some images to add to the collage.

This is what it looked like when I received it:

Rr2lzim_1

This is a painted paper background with tyvek flowers and some Angelina fibers. I saw a mysterious and sort of secret garden emerging. To me, it needed some contrast in images and some structure. I was so focused that I forgot to take pictures of my process.

First, I ironed some silk organza to freezer paper and printed two images on it. One was an iron garden gate and the other was a woman with a head full of flowers and fruits for hair. I colored in the fruits and veggies and her skin with fabric ink pens. I then collaged these two images to the background using Golden Gel Medium.

Rrlzim3gate

Rrlzim3flowerhair

As usual, I felt the need to do more. I looked through some magazines and found some photos of garden paths and some evocative text. I tore these and collaged two areas with the garden photos and the text: Inspired path and secrets to share.

Rrlzim3path

Rrlzim3secret

When it was dry, I used some black ink to antique the paper pieces and to blend them in to the background. I love the way these look. Here is the whole piece:

Rrlindaz3

This has 8 more layers to go so I hope someone has fun adding some elements to the gate.

I must go pack for my journey tomorrow. i wanted to show you my own version of “Men in Trees”.

Menintrees

This is the back of our house. We are having all the deadwood trimmed and the remaining trees trimmed to look better. We now have a view of the golf course across the street. They also took out all the overgrown shrubs in the front of the house and garage.

My sister has wireless so I will take my laptop and check in. I want to say thanks to everyone for their condolences and good wishes. It is much appreciated. When I come home next week, my son, Mark, and Jayme, are coming for my birthday and Mark is going to help Steve with relandscaping our house. It will be a great week.

3 Responses to “Art Therapy”

  1. Diane D. says:

    Isn’t it wonderful to be able to find solace in quilting? I’m so sorry for your family’s loss.

  2. Judy says:

    Wonderful job on the collage! I learn so much from reading your blog and watching what you do. You are a true inspiration. Isn’t art therapy the best!!!

  3. dee says:

    Gerrie, so sorry for the sad events-isn’t it lovely to be able to loose ourselves for a while in something as wonderful as this art that makes us feel tangible sense of healing through our fingers and into our hearts. The round robin is very interesting-can’t wait to see what takes place next. Safe trip and sending you warm thoughts.