The Stories in Our Stitches

(I'm starting a new "up-cycled" shawl project)

(A twist on the Rose Shawl designed by Natalie Chanin)

(It will be a sister to my first Alabama Chanin-inspired shawl)

(Made entirely from recycled t-shirts and many hand-stitches...)

***

I like to have a sewing project that I can flop across my lap at the end of the day and quietly get lost in my stitches. Big sewing projects at the sewing machine are something I also adore, but there is something so simple and satisfying about having a creative project that is quiet, transportable, and also lap-sized.

I used to feel this way about knitting too. There's something meditative about the act of creating without the use of a machine. Don't let me fool you-- I proudly take part in my life via laptop, I revel in the features of my digital camera, and I love my portable Singer sewing machine--but I am equally swooned by the quiet act of a thread and needle. Or a pencil and notebook. Or the way ink lifts from a linoleum block when it's been printed by hand.

I think there's a different resonance in work that's been made entirely by hand. Not that there's a hierarchy, but just a different frequency or story or sound. I like to think the stitches actually hold stories about the lives of the people who made them. I like to imagine the thread marks are like tiny letters or symbols or codes dashing across the fabric, telling us stories without ever saying a word.

xoxo, k.

Spring Studio Updates

The rain continues to drip and drizzle on the potted herbs lining our front step but the blue skies are putting up a good fight for April's affection. If you ask me, I think the sunny side just might win. There are a few studio updates I wanted to share with you including collaborations on jewelry, theatrical sets, and an upcoming publication. More details...

1.
I am so excited to announce that I am part of Sprout Studio's artist-of-the-month collaboration. I've rounded out designer, Jen Lake's, bakers' dozen and I am smitten with the collection she's created. And honored to have my linoleum printed chairs and sewn bird canvas among the other artworks-turned-necklaces. Such a lovely job, Ms. Jen, and thank you.

2.
I am designing a set! Yes, a set for theater. Well, a set for dance to be precise. After seeing my Dresses/ Objects installation last summer, choreographer Hope Mohr asked me to design the set for her upcoming show at the San Francisco International Arts Festival. So, on May 19 I will debut as a set designer. The set will include digital photograph projections, a huge handmade cotton video screen, and a bunch of red thread. Cross your fingers, please!

3.
I will have an article and photographs included in the upcoming issue of Viz Inter-Arts magazine. I LOVED the first issue and I'm honored to be included in the second. I'll show you images when it's released--such a wonderful poetry publication.

Hope you are happily navigating April--full of promise for the warmer days ahead and all the adventures of summertime weather. Or, for my friends on the other side of the globe, I hope you are cozying up to cooler and quieter months ahead. xoxo, k.

Austin, Texas: Through My Lens

Austin, Texas: you are absolutely adorable!

From the food trucks, shops, and cafes on South Congress; to the amazing swimming opportunities at Barton Springs Pool (the most beautiful city swimming structures I've ever seen); to the fabulous food and gardens at the East Side Cafe; to the exhibition at the Austin Art Museum; to the adorable little cottages where we stayed (complete with vegetable and flower gardens under a true canopy of birdsong); to the slow spirited days with my husband's family-- Austin, Texas was a sheer delight.

(on the side of Jo's cafe, a love note from the owner's girlfriend)

(our front steps to the garden)

(everything was blooming and blue skies, and roses grew)

(two beloved family members, taking a rest)

(surrounded by birdsong, literally!)

(the vacation obligation: slow sipping caffeine, preferably street side)

(our cozy loft, complete with re-purposed wood)

(dreamy like a springtime breeze)

(hello littlest you, happy to indulge the little ones)

(outside our cottage, just so)

(the east side cafe has chickens! delighted.)

(my favorite food truck: hey cupcake in a remodeled airstream. swoon, swoon.)

My only regret is that we didn't stay longer. But I suppose it is the sign of a vacation well spent when you leave wanting more. It was just four days in the middle of the country with relatives from each end of the states, but it was just enough to reset my daily clock to a slower pace, awaken my muses for a day or two, and remind me that there are so many places I've yet to visit. I used to travel quite a bit and this trip reminded why. (Le sigh. )

Austin, Texas we were grateful for your sweet, southern charm and hospitality. For those of you who have never been, I do recommend a visit. xoxo, k.

April in Austin and Spring is Sprung

Oakland is aflutter with the promise of spring. The rains have broken and we have been graced with gorgeous blue skies and warm afternoons and reasons to wear skirts without tights or winter coats or fingerless mittens. (To those of you in colder climates, hold on, your warmer afternoons are coming soon, I promise.)

The birds are full of chatter. The neighbors are emerging from their winter caves and we are meeting them for the very first time here. And the cherry, apple, and plum tree blossoms are popping up all over in shades of white and raspberry and pink. Spring is finally springing.

By the time you read this I will be in Austin, TX for the very first time aflutter with my own curiosities of being in a brand new place. I'll only be away for a long weekend, visiting with family and enjoying the sights and shops and eateries around town. I'm so curious... what is Austin like in April? Soon I'll get to find out. xoxo, k.