I have begun to explore the book/s I shall contribute to Rob Foster's exhibition "Personal Histories". There is nothing to limit the books except the title; and given how personal each of our lives is, there will no doubt be enormous diversity.
I have gone around the mulberry bush several times so to speak thinking about what to send; but have landed in a small and intimate space.
I had thought about my grandmothers and great grandmothers, and have a couple of book ideas for that; but pulled back for two reasons. Firstly I needed to get more oral history and memory from my parents, but they are away travelling for a bit. But secondly I felt the need to not make the book tooooo personal. I didn't end up wanting to have truly personal photos or stories of me or my family on public display.
I had thought I would, but then I drew back.
Instead I have been playing with the frames for photographic slides; and have been mixing them with fabric and words and paper. They are telling a personal history of "living a life".
I am using crochet thread for my stitching - linking back to my grandmothers.
I am resurrecting a working piece I began ages ago not knowing what it would become...
Lots of play and trials happening...
Cutting into the fabric!
Enclosing the words and fabric in slide-frames. Slide nights were a feature of my childhood, and bring back lots of memories.
Pages emerge...
I am enjoying how this wee book is coming together - a two-way conversation between us; including chats and nods to my parents and grandparents along the way.
I have gone around the mulberry bush several times so to speak thinking about what to send; but have landed in a small and intimate space.
I had thought about my grandmothers and great grandmothers, and have a couple of book ideas for that; but pulled back for two reasons. Firstly I needed to get more oral history and memory from my parents, but they are away travelling for a bit. But secondly I felt the need to not make the book tooooo personal. I didn't end up wanting to have truly personal photos or stories of me or my family on public display.
I had thought I would, but then I drew back.
Instead I have been playing with the frames for photographic slides; and have been mixing them with fabric and words and paper. They are telling a personal history of "living a life".
I am using crochet thread for my stitching - linking back to my grandmothers.
I am resurrecting a working piece I began ages ago not knowing what it would become...
Lots of play and trials happening...
Cutting into the fabric!
Enclosing the words and fabric in slide-frames. Slide nights were a feature of my childhood, and bring back lots of memories.
I am enjoying how this wee book is coming together - a two-way conversation between us; including chats and nods to my parents and grandparents along the way.
Wow! Using the slide frames is a great idea! And they're so teeny tiny though. Aren't they difficult to work with? Or is the challenge part of the fun? Can't wait to see the finished piece. Enjoy!
ReplyDeleteI'm back on the computer and not the phone so can finally reply! Thanks Jennifer - the slide frames are tiny and bait fiddly but not too bad really. It has been fun trying to work my way thru this one. Go well.
Deletesomehow being less personal becomes more personal...for the reader. i like that. and the "windows" are such fun!
ReplyDeleteI like that way of thinking about it Velma - being less of my 'personal' allows the viewer to find it their 'personal' too - thank you!
Deletelove this Fiona, have thought hard about doing something for that show but simply can't go there or can but wouldn't put it out in the world!
ReplyDeleteI hear you Mo! It is really really hard. I accepted gleefully, and have struggled ever since to find a way to express personal things in a truly public manner...
Deletelove the slide windows
ReplyDeleteA chance find Ronnie, tucked away until now...
DeleteI think you have found the perfect balance of personal as well as universal...connecting your personal history of your grandmothers on a more universal level... wonderful.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much Donna - it has been a real struggle but I think I am finding my way through...as Velma says it also lets it be personal for others in a way. Go well
DeleteI've used slide mounts Fiona and they are fiddly to work with. I bought an old slide box and thought about placing the 'book pages' like slides to be picked up in order but I love the fact that you stitched them together. I think Velma is spot on when she says that being less 'personal' will in fact make the book even more personal and intimate for the reader. I always love 'accompanying' you when you're thinking through an idea. You are always so considered and focussed. Send some of that my way will you?
ReplyDeleteThank you for your words of wisdom and support Lesley! I love the notion of NOT stitching and leaving them in a slide-box; that would be great! I loved Velma's thought and am glad you agree - it allows room for others to find their own stories doesn't it? It's always a pleasure for you to join me in my ramblings - you always add something that helps! Go well.
Delete