Not Thinking--an art quilt that depicts The Buddha in a leafy setting

I bought a 4-inch statue of the Buddha in a little shop in Manhattan.  I photographed it in many settings until I found a leafy one that inspired an interpretation into fabric.  For me, the color green and the Buddha have similar associations--nature, peace, tranquility, and balance. 

The finished piece measures 34 inches wide x 38 inches high. Materials: hand-dyed and commercial cotton fabrics, tulle, embroidery thread, and glass beads. Techniques: hand applique, hand beaded & embroidered, machine quilted. The title is "Not Thinking."

This piece was exhibited at the 2012 (November)Heart in Hand quilt guild show at the Bowen Art Center in Dawsonville, Georgia. 

 

Black & White Cookie Fabric Mandala

I am embarking on a new series of art quilts--mandalas of common objects elevated to divine status. The subject of my first mandala is New York City's black & white cookie. This high-calorie treat is one of my favorites, and eating one makes me immensely happy. What an ideal object for contemplation!

This mandala measures 24 inches in diameter. It is made of batting-stuffed coils of fabric attached to each other with zigzag stitches. The cookies, yin yang designs, and the Buddhas are paper covered with tulle netting and appliqued. Beaded crochet and sequins lend the final touches.