There is an exciting visual and intellectual tension created by juxtaposing heavy and light, soft and hard, feminine and masculine. This unexpected combination of contrasting elements is more exciting to me than if each element existed on its own. Recently, I have been experimenting with monofilament and natural fibers, sometimes combining them, creating organic forms that are then physically stretched by the weight of internal elements. The weight of the objects inside, effect the drape and the ultimate finished shape of the piece. It reminds me that the weight of our worlds effect our own finished forms.
When I work, I start with a concept drawing and a very detailed pattern of the stitch count. Focusing on the process of the crocheting, I begin to respond viscerally to the developing form. Crocheting one loop after another. Feeling the “threads” change from a skein into a “solid” form, and always remembering that the form is created from one continuous interlocking line. Responding, reacting, musing. Sometimes, when the crochet work is done, I add other objects to complete the piece, i.e., wooden spheres, woolen spheres, or industrial metal elements. When it is completed, and only then, I begin to understand the intellectual meaning of the sculpture.