About the Artist
ISABEL BECKER – The Inspiration for the Framed Pictures came while I was reading a children’s book to a granddaughter, I was inspired by the illustrations in fabric and decided to try to sew one to be hung on a wall in a room I was decorating for grandchildren. Because I do not copy – even my own work- the picture was original and turned out to be fun to do. Since then I have been sewing the fabric collage/ appliqué pictures in an expanding amount of subjects. What started out as creations for my family has turned into a creative arts business. I now exhibit and win awards in juried exhibitions and sell at crafts fairs, art shows and charitable events. It is creative, sometimes challenging, but always rewarding work. My work is considered both art (mixed media) and a craft (quilting); this seems a natural combination of many of my lifelong interests.
The Creative Process - Inspiration comes to me from many areas; viewing a picture, a fabric or just an idea which intrigues me. Themes range from nursery rhyme characters, jungle and domestic animals, sea life as boats or fish, vehicles as cars, fire engines, planes and trains, sports for boys, girls and adults (including golf), ballet dancers and other girl fancies, hobbies, flowers, landscapes and whatever else I find which will create an original picture. Most recently, I have started working on house portraits. After deciding on an approximate size by using a sample mat, I start “fussy cutting” fabrics which relate to the theme which I have determined. Once the background fabric or fabrics have been selected, I lay the pieces out to create a picture that works in the size mat or frame I have chosen. I use pins to hold the picture pieces in place and often wait until I decide that the picture “works”, rearranging as necessary before sewing. As with all appliqué type sewing, I start with the lowest layer of fabric and work up, matching threads and using special stitches where desired. The sewing is done by machine. At this point I begin the time-consuming process to clip all threads, both front and back before I starch, press and adhere the finished product to a backing material and mat and frame the picture. While many subjects are revisited, each comes out differently so no two are alike. I create special orders for my client’s needs, such as a baby picture for a special gift or wall art for a professional office.
My Background - I grew up in a home where my mother was very artistic, I was always aware of art, composition, color and beauty. My mother encouraged me to try everything and exposed me to many types of art media. She also taught me how to sew which I always enjoyed. I followed up on some of the arts as an adult, mainly working with silver and sewing. In a professional capacity I have been trained and worked as an educator and a REALTOR.
Isabel Becker .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
This event sponsored by the Rye Free Reading Room.
