Mindset

Not environments, but mindsets determine a person’s mood. Like a lotus flower in a quiet muddy pond, it is still pure and elegant, as well as its own reflection. Everyone has an inner self. We all have our problems and issues. Finding serenity amidst chaos is a positive energy and wisdom.

Lotus is clean and fragrant. It represents the ideal realm of purity in Buddhism. To me, hand sewing requires a quiet and relaxed manner at any time. Neither too fast nor too slow. It is also a time for self-reflection and intense concentration. After getting along intimately with needle and thread for years, I have somehow gained the ability of dealing with adversity, problems and difficulties in life.

This work, Mindset, is something that I have been wanting to do for a long time, but I have never given it a whirl. But now, courage and determination give me enough energy to achieve the dream. Anyway, I have learned the precious philosophy! Thank you for the challenge topic, Betty.

Materials: artist’s natural dye gauze and cotton, commercial cottons, dyed fabrics, organza, silk, satin, iridescent sheer fabric, metallic thread

Techniques: hand pieced, hand appliquéd, hand quilted, hand embroidered

Size: 18” x 36”