|
|
|
|
|
About Janet
| Click to View: |
 |
I have been passionate about all things fibre since my early teens. Several years ago I started experimenting with various quilting techniques to create garments that stood out in a crowd. The fabrics I use are diverse, from new
cottons to vintage Japanese kimono, silk clothing and neckties. I am fascinated by the possibilities inherent in men's ties-those little bits of gorgeous fabric that serve no real purpose!
I feel I put them to much better use, taking advantage of their bias cut to create
organic fluid curves in my work.
In the spring of 2007, I accepted a commission for liturgical stoles made from neckties. This project became all-consuming, much to my surprise. The ties were collected from the new minister's home congregation, and I felt privileged to be the conduit of a huge creative force.
I am also an avid knitter and my knitting life has been particularly enhanced in the last year. I've been exploring the concept of "contemplative knitting", which is knitting with intention, imbuing each stitch with love and affection for the recipient. The ideal project
is a
prayer shawl
and then you literally wrap that person with your warmth and good wishes. I have knit shawls for friends and family members undergoing a change whether that is a celebration (e.g. a birth, marriage, or special birthday), transition (a new job, new home) or loss (e.g. death, illness, unemployment).
I find teaching very rewarding. I love to see the light bulbs go on around the room as students make discoveries. My teaching approach is that of a facilitator; I demonstrate and explain certain techniques but also challenge each person to use this knowledge to develop his or her own ideas. In my workshops I cultivate an atmosphere of exploration and invention.
In 1999, I co-founded the Okanagan Knitting Retreat with Wendy Henderson and the late Gloria Hanson. These retreats have become a tradition for many participants and are held at Sorrento Centre on Shuswap Lake.
The statement by William Morris, “Art should be a joy to the maker and the user”, strikes a responsive chord with me. My mission is to create fibre art that gives as much pleasure to the recipients as I had in its creation.
- Janet Armstrong
|
|
|
|
|
About