How do you know when a piece is done?
“All This Time” detail of work in process.
For me it is part trial and error. One of the beautiful aspects to textile work - is that you can rip something out, undo your work, add/subtract stitches or fragments of cloth.
This gives me a sort of liberal courage. I feel comfortable making marks in one direction - knowing that I can always reverse my steps.
This is not always the case - especially with dye, bleach and anything that I cut. But the courage to move, to possibly mess things up is what propels my art - and I think all innovative art — to new directions.
Growth as an artist demands that we cut old patterns, take risks, and expand perceived boundaries.
“All This Time” detail of work in process.
And yet at some point, all this motion has to cease.
Knowing when to stop working on a piece, is just as important was knowing when jump in and to keep messing things around.
There comes a time when the piece “tells me” it is done. My job is to listen and observe, to know when it is time.
Today this piece titled “All This Time” feels done.
But just to be sure…..
I’ll listen and look for a few more days.