Title:  Palpable

Medium:  Mixed media (machine embroidered hands)

Size:  14 5/8” x 11 5/8”

Artist’s Statement:  A statement on human connection.

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Notes: The machine embroidered hands are a shrunken tracing of my hand.

I used machine embroidery software to convert my hand tracing into an embroidery design. Then I shrunk the design to fit a 5″ x 7″ hoop.

Each hand has to be turned (those fingers are a pain to turn!) Then I insert wire in to each finger to make them poseable. Next, I add plastic pellets and stuffing then I sew the hands closed. Lots of work but they have great impact!

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When I dropped off my art for the exhibition the curator and the Arts Center Manager asked if I wanted a plexiglass cover over the piece. This exhibit is in a hallway, as opposed to a gallery. With one hand “free” just sitting on the piece, there’s no guarantee someone won’t walk away with the hand. I declined. 🙂

I want people to experience “Palpable” the way I intended. There is no barrier between the art piece and the viewer. To cover the piece changes the entire dynamics and as snooty as it sounds, I wouldn’t want to display it under those conditions. (A true sign I’m coming in to my own as an artist! haha).

I am also aware of the risks of the hand getting moved or perhaps stolen. This risk adds another layer of interest on the human condition. So far, the visitors to the Lewisville Grand Theater have passed the test. I am confident the hand will remain for the entire duration of the show.

This piece has layers of interpretation. Experience it in person. Track me down and we can discuss.

Exhibit: Small Works
Dates: August 12 – Sept 16, 2023
Location: Lewisville Grand Theater
Want to make friends and showcase your own art? Join the Visual Art League of Lewisville. Not an artist but want to support the arts? You can donate to the group or consider purchasing art by any of the artists. Those little red dots that indicate “sold” next to a piece are highly prized. 🙂

Live nowhere near Texas? Search for Art Leagues or Art Guilds in your area. They are hidden gems.