2019

During World War II, American and British governments rationed clothes and urged citizens to revive and repair worn clothing with the ‘Make Do and Mend’ campaign. And patriotically, people found many clever solutions during those tough times.

I think we’re living in tough times again. The threat this time is our own consumer habits and sensibilities. It wasn’t long ago when garments were bought with intention to wear for years, some even decades. Now the lifespan of personal items often measures in weeks and months. Discard and replace has become too common rather than take the time to mend a tear or sew a button. In consequence, Earth’s natural resources are depleting while landfills are compounding.

Found materials and a damaged tablecloth were salvaged in this project including a holiday garland improvised as buttons. Give worn, torn and dated belongings a second chance. After all, this is how patchwork quilts came about in many cultures – out of necessity and ingenuity.

33”h x 45”w x 1”d

Machine pieced, hand quilted, hand appliqued, hand beaded, hand sewn button holes, 2.5-inch garland pieces were sanded to obscure holiday motif and enhance texture.

Recycled tablecloth, found fabric, recycled plastic garland, found beads, perle cotton, thread, batting.

9.11.2022 — Accepted into Round Rock Arts My Art, My Cause exhibition at the Avery Building Gallery, Texas State University, Round Rock (October 10 - December 2, 2022).