Elements in Art
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Tapestry Afghanistan 2012 For my Elements in Art blog I chose to do this tapestry that I have in my home. I got this from Afghanistan in 2012 and I fell in love with it the minute that I saw it. It is fabric sewn together to form the shape of an elephant. The head and trunk are disproportionate to the body and the viewers eyes are automatically drawn to them. Other than the border, the head and trunk have some of the greatest detail in the stitching. The different patterns around the border are sewn into the fabric with different materials, providing a multitude of texture. The colors are contrasting. The pale pink background has its own pattern of texture and lines. The lines are not straight and are used to define shapes that makeup the elephant, background, and border. It almost looks like the elephant has a blanket on its back. Reinforced with thick yarn the lines are kinda fuzzy, giving the tapestry some added depth. Some do not precisely match the edges of the fabric. Were these thick borders put in after the fact to help certain features stand out? One of the reasons that I like this so much is that it reminds me that things do not have to be perfect to be beautiful. The areas where the lines are not completey straight are my favorite. It kind of reminds me of someone that colors outside the lines. This tapestry upsets my perfectionism and I can appreciate that. Also, this hangs over my fireplace and I look at it whenever I need to calm my mind. Though this piece I think is particularly busy, with the different lines and shapes, colors and textures, shiny sequins and dull browns, it sills my mind. A sense of calm washes over me. In the chaos there is quiet. |
That is an absolutely beautiful tapestry. I would argue that the most detail was put in above the elephant's hind legs. It's that box-shaped portion that's a lighter color than the rest. I'll admit though that I'm mostly saying that because that's where I see the most color variation, so that could just be surface level. I agree that the trunk is beautifully made though. I think that's a great piece you picked out!
ReplyDeleteAmanda,
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing this amazing tapestry. It is quite beautiful. I love the pink contrasting the black elephant drawing your eyes immediately to it. I love the neutral tones with the black. They make the black color really pop out. The stitching as you've said is a little imperfect, but brings personality to this tapestry. I noticed that some of the shapes are separated through the use of thick lined stitching. I agree, it does look as if the elephant is wearing a blanket on its back. The trunk and head of the elephant are a bit disproportionate along with the ear. I appreciate the use of patterns not only in the pale pink background, but the elephant and border as well. You can tell just by looking that there is a lot of texture from the stitching, fabric used on the border and elephant, and the white floral like patterns on the pink background. I would definitely own this piece in my home.
Hey Amanda,
ReplyDeleteThat is one fascinating tapestry. I am captivated by the elephant's head and ears, just something about the patterns inside them. Each body part has its pattern, making each piece pop out at the viewer. I also agree with how the non-straight lines at the border enhance the theme of the tapestry.
Thank you for your post.
I love the contrast in this price. The complex designs clashing with the simple background look elegant, while maintaining a simple look by the dominance by a single color.
ReplyDelete