The end September has arrived once again. A blessing that our life is filled with change and the seasons are a reminder of the simple timeline of our lives. The more we get to experience, the more we embrace the very essence of each day. As a child the seasons did not not have the same influence as it does for me today. LOOKING around nature is aware of everything. The light and temperature and moisture. The signals to embrace and let go, so that we can prepare our roots or seeds to continue the lives ahead.
This summer was filled with sunshine. My garden was so abundant with life and produce. Gifts from the seeds, sun, rain and soil. I had a great summer and many film costume days. My most meaningful was to work with some talented and kind Indigenous First Nations women on a TV series. Once the show has been aired next year, I will be able to share some of the work we made together. Those 3 weeks of long working hours was my summer highlight.
In a small sunlight room, six of us beaded 12 hour days on the pattern parts for the costumes on an TV episode. Like my workshop energy we all were creating with music in the background and sharing the stories that were part of our lives. I learned so much about these strong beautiful women. Each from the different nations Brit (Onondaga), Laura (Anishinaabe Mississauga / Michi-Saagiig), Amanda Nbisiing Anishinaabeg /Kahnawake Mohawk, Lyndsay reader Patterson ( Missassauga’s of the Credit First Nation) Katie (Mohawk / Cree). Then there was Madeline ( Irish / British / French) and myself Gwendolyne ( Souvakian / Welsh / British ) The beading talent in this room was incredible. The room was our circle and this work opportunity was an education for me about the injustice Canada’s Indigenous People have endured since 1871. It would be eye opening for anyone to look up Canada First Nation Treaty on your browser and understand what our government has done.
Tomorrow is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, it’s important for all of us to take this opportunity to reflect on the trauma inflicted by residential schools and to honour those who were lost, as well as their families. The First Nations people have much to share of their ancestors’ ways. The artwork we were beading onto the garments spoke of community and respect here were a few of what the motif were saying “Learned, aware of others feelings, how actions impact”, “Heritage awareness, legends, storytellers”, “Heritage/family with Wigwam (home)”, and “Joy and sadness”. This work inspired me and I intend to create an artwork beaded wall hanging with my own life symbols of my journey. It will be a project that will take much time and I am set to begin it this winter by creating my imagery first.
Recently I announced the Fall 2024 Fiber Textile Art Workshop dates. Beginning this October, I will be presenting my eighth workshop series. If you feel that you want to participate I encourage you to step out and explore your potential. My life since my partner passed several years ago is to go outside my comfort zone. It’s a regular part of each day now. It brings me personal growth and adventure like I have never had in my life before. Last year's course was so fun here are some highlights I recorded. I am wishing that this course can bring much to you as the circle of energy awaits for you. To enrol click here to get your seat at the table.
In this years' fiber textile art workshop I have set up several domestic sewing machines available for those who may want to incorporate free arm machine embroidery in your artwork. I recently finished my last workshop piece and the water grass was created this way.
Each day we live has more potential for growth if we all remember to step out of our comfort zone and experience the world with new eyes. Stepping out into the Fall season with the wonders of gratitude. :)
Gwendolyne