Michelle's LoveLight

I was recently commissioned to create a memorial LoveLight. The project consisted of creating a mandala featuring the name Michelle. It was to be presented to her parents, so their hand prints were embedded into the design. Then as a special gift, her eight siblings were to be presented with a 'limited edition'. I was given tracings of the siblings along with the parents hand prints and a batik 'tie dyed' effect fabric was selected. Then my work began.

I started by making a stencil of the name Michelle. I do this on folded freezer paper. When the stencil is unfolded, snowflake style, it reveals a design that is unique to the name. The stencil is then pressed into place on the fabric and the design painted. Colors are selected intuitively. When the stencil is removed from the fabric, I am always completely surprised by the design that is revealed. After drying for a day or two, the design is ready to be layered and stitched with decorative metallic threads. Again, I intuitively work with the color selection and placement of the stitches in the design. I can't really explain how this is done. It is a leap of faith, every time a new LoveLight is created. I simply give myself over to the project and do the next step that presents itself. Not much thinking goes into this practice as I allow the piece to speak to me and tell me what it next wants for it's completion.

To create a 'limited edition', a photo image is taken of the completed piece before the hand prints are stitched into place. Then I print the image on fabric, layer it with batting and backing fabric, and stitch over the quilting lines of the original design. I was then able to trace and stitch each individual hand print of the siblings to give each their own unique mandala of the original design. This technique makes a truly personalized, unique gift for the recipient. The pieces are then signed, dated, and framed.

I delivered the commission this week and am waiting for the comments from the family and friends. Hopefully, they will be touched by the work of my hands and their spirits lifted with the healing color mandalas. At least, that is my prayer.

Until next time ~ Live your Light.
Kasia

Technology Today

Dear Ones -
It's difficult for me to realize that I have had a web site for four years. Who could have guessed that computer illiterate me would have taken on such a challenge. But here I am, still learning, growing, blogging, and plugging away at these computer skills that have become a part of my everyday life.

With the transformation in my art focus on the circular form (mandalas), the time now seems appropriate to give the site a new look as well. Something that will reflect the illuminated circular name designs that are spinning in my creative mind's eye. Perhaps using the 'Kasia' logo that now graces my brochure, notepad and business cards, creating a personal brand.
I'm also thinking of adding a shopping cart page where framed prints of my designs could be purchased. It has occurred to me on numerous occasions that I, alone, cannot possibly supply the demand for my designs. I do currently make limited editions of commissioned LoveLights(c) for family members when a special occasion demands duplicate pieces. These "prints" are done on fabric and then stitched to reflect the intention of the original. It's a great gift idea.
Today I will be meeting with my webmaster to discuss these changes and to hear Judy's suggestions for updating the site. I'll report my findings and hopefully you will be able to view them yourself in the near future.

Until next time ~ Live your Light.
Kasia