Hands Free Tote

Well I’ve finally made it.  It’s done!

I started out surfing the internet hoping to find some creative ideas.  I found pictures of balance wheels from time pieces, an elephant balancing on a beach ball, a balance scale…you name it there were many.  None really “rang my bell".

While looking at my African Collage and trying to figure out how to quilt it, an idea came to me.  Have you ever attempted to carry something on your head without using hands to maintain its balance?  Women in Africa do it all the time and make it look so easy.  So there I had it...my inspiration for this piece.

I started drawing out the image in my sketchbook.  Here is a piece of it.

The next decision was how to construct the piece.  An abstract representation or a natural one.  I chose the natural and started making templates for the various pieces that would be needed to construct the figure. 

 I was quickly running out of time.  I also needed to find an appropriate background.

Well here at last is the piece. 

It was constructed with hand applique.  I added colour to the white and black print with watercolour pencils.  I added charcoal shading to one section hoping to give the clothing some dimension.  And the basket…well that took a bit of experimenting which you can see on my blog here.  All in all I’m pleased with the piece, but I have to learn to balance my time a bit better.  Thank you Judy for a challenge that stretched my imagination and applique skills.  I also managed to use some new products, that I will use again.