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From mind-numbing to mindful

From mind-numbing to mindful

Dropping out is easy. This art practice is about tuning in​Flat on my back in the chair last week, the dentist had just plunged the second needle into my eroded molar area and her assistant was now affixing the rubber dam. This is when my go-to flight response kicked...
End of an era for Vancouver makers

End of an era for Vancouver makers

The one great store that fuels textile dreams is closing due to small-business struggles​​Judging by the early deluge of reactions on Reddit last week, we Vancouver makers are stunned to learn that our mecca for material and more is selling off its inventory and...
Awkward family moment informs art-making aesthetic

Awkward family moment informs art-making aesthetic

When I first started out as a suburban-newspaper reporter I had a single original artwork tacked to the wall in my basement suite. It was a life-sized acrylic-on-paper, a nude holding her maybe-pregnant belly against a landscape of spewing factories and...
Needling at patriotism and protest

Needling at patriotism and protest

The American penchant for patriotic treats is impressive, from jelly shots to meat trays. (Instagram collage) We all sort of forgot about celebrating Canada Day last weekend, up north, on a farm. No fireworks, no flags, no impressive array of themed party foods in the...
Faith is key when you’re cutting up family heirlooms

Faith is key when you’re cutting up family heirlooms

Is it easy to cut up hand-embroidered linen tablecloths, runners, pillowcases?It is not. As an adequate hand-stitcher I understand the skill, labour, time and patience that goes into each linen. I understand the desire to cherish these vintage domestic-craft objects...
Circular thinking can be a flow state too

Circular thinking can be a flow state too

I opened up my studio yesterday to the public to get some general feedback on a new series of paintings. Because even though I’m compelled to keep working on it and even though I’m enjoying a growing proficiency in this mash-up of stitching and painting I’m having...