The parallel lines of this beach boardwalk from a seaside trip last year would make
an interesting screen print. |
As you know, I am a surface design junkie. As you also know, surface design is messy.
So while I often take my beloved Bernina® on vacation with me, I'm not likely to lug my screens, Thermofax machine, paints, dyes, and soy wax with me.
But does that stop me from working on my surface design habit while I'm traveling? No way! I can still collect materials, supplies, and ideas to use once I'm back in my studio.
Here's a list of things I keep an eye out for while I'm on the go:
1. Small found objects with a graphically interesting shape that I can use these for sun printing.
2. Objects with texture I can print with or use to make designs on a gelatin printing plate.
3. Unusual things or scenes that I can photograph and turn into a screen for printing.
4. Stencils or things I can use as stencils.
5. Exotic textiles I can use as inspiration for design and color.
These vacation collections are not just fodder for art, but mementos of my travels. Like a surface design scrapbook!
When I'm home, I unpack my loot and schedule time for a surface design field day. And if I need any help brainstorming on how to use any of these treasures, I simply turn one of my Quilting Arts WorkshopTM videos, like "Surface Design Sampler Platter" by Lyric Kinard or "Adventures in Surface Design" by Kerr Grabowski. Inspired by these artists I admire, the ideas start to flow.
You can download these and other Workshop videos at a special savings this week. Set yourself up with them now, and you'll be ready to make art out of your vacation finds as soon as you return, wherever you go, and whatever your muse leads you.
Happy gathering!
P.S. What do you collect on vacations to use later in your studio? I'm always looking for new ideas and I know other blog readers would appreciate it, too. Leave a comment below!