Art and technique
 

I’ve looked to see if this has been discussed elsewhere, and didn’t find it, so forgive me if (I’m a total newbie here) I am going over old ground. Perhaps, in any case, it’s ground worth going over again if it has indeed already been covered?

And this is not just for so-called ‘art quilters’, really it’s to do with any creative enterprise and quilting is certainly that.

I guess I wonder if others come across the technique-pursued goals that can sometimes stymie artistic freedom and inventiveness? Here’s what I mean: I, like I’m sure most of us here, love learning new techniques, and thrive on constantly pushing my own envelope to be better at those techniques, adding to my quilting ‘vocabulary’. My problem is that I can very easily get bogged down in the technique itself such that it takes over to the exclusion of any originality. Looking back over my work I can see the eras of each learning curve, the various appliqué eras, trapunto, quilt-as-you-go, straight line quilting (huge thanks to Jacquie Gering!), learning proper binding, mitred corners and all, flying geese...well, the list is endless, isn’t it. And it’s just that always-more-to-learn aspect that makes quilting so endlessly interesting. But it can grind any originality to a halt, too, if one isn’t careful, it seems to me. Does anyone else agree? Does anyone else suddenly think “What am I doing here? Yes, I may have become really good at a particular technique, but in the end that can only serve us well if we use it well, can’t it?” It’s true that one can look at a brilliant piece of quilting and marvel at the sheer expertise, but if that’s the only thing that stands out about it then somehow something might just be missing, perhaps? I once had a run-in with someone who’d overheard me say that I had a new exhibition coming up, and this person said “I do find that so-called artists usually have such poor technique”; I said in response that I sometimes wished I had less, and could just hurl myself into something without worrying so much. I can get back to the not worrying stage after a while, having learned the technique and earned, I believe, the right to break some rules, but it can take time. I’d love to know if anyone has any thoughts on any of this, though perhaps I’m the only one who fusses about such things!! For me, the way out of what can become a real cul-de-sac, is to open a huge and wonderful book I have on the quilts of Gees Bend and remind myself of simplicity, functionality, and the dynamic individuality of these gorgeous creations.

I'm not really sure I understand what you're trying to say, but as I was reading your post, these 2 points came to mind, hopefully you'll find them relevant.

I don't find that learning and mastering new techniques grinds any of my creativity to a halt. In fact, I think my creative juices are greatly stimulated, because once I start grasping concepts and gaining skills in that technique, I start thinking "Ok what if I did this instead? What would happen if I did that?" and boom! I'm off to the races and my family has to fend for themselves at dinner time.

About the person who said to you "I do find that so-called artists usually have such poor technique" - I'm not sure that was a thoughtful thing to say. Using the term "so-called" in their comment feels overtly hostile and as such, I would lose all interest in caring about their opinion.

Yes, totally relevant; and you are right that learning new techniques certainly can actually promote creativity. I guess perhaps I wasn’t very clear, sorry!! I think what I mean is that one has to get through a stage where the technique itself can become more important than what you do with it? Also, re the person who commented on the ‘so-called artists’, I totally agree with you that it’s a hostile way of putting it! And also should add that I did indeed lose all interest!!

I agree with Peckish. Learning a new technique usually enhances my thinking process. There are so many different ways to approach a technique that I am spurred, with mind racing, to come up with alternate ways or ideas. To me; to learn a new technique is an opportunity to grow in many directions. Sometimes even in the direction originally planned.

I'm sure I've told this story before on this board but it's applicable in this case. I was fortunate as a young quilter to take a course in sewing technique from a woman who ran her own custom tailoring business in San Francisco in the fifties and sixties. This woman knew all the custom clothing construction techniques that are used in the high fashion couture houses. I learned beading, needle turn applique, French draping, fitting, and every sewing technique you've heard of and probably some you haven't.

On the last day of this year long course she said to us, "Now that you know all the rules, go out and break them!"

The more you know how to do the more you can do. Because of my training I'm not afraid to tackle anything and I joyously break the rules. Technique is a tool. Creativity is using tools to explore the world outside the box. I purposely seek out the "impossible" because I feel confident enough to give it a good shot. I love learning something new because I get too bored with projects that don't challenge me.

There are a lot of quilters out there that are limited in their creativity because they get too caught up in how things should be done because they took a class or read a book. If there was one thing that my 40+ years of quilting has taught me is to do my own thing always.

If you're feeling like you've lost your creative mojo the best way I know to break out of it is to take a break. Challenge yourself in a different way. You'd be amazed at what you'll learn about yourself and your art.

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I hope this thread sparks an interesting line of discussion...thanks for starting it. Very thought provoking!

I'm thinking as I write so bear with me. I have been sewing for almost 60 years and started my first quilt about 8 years later as a high schooler. It was simple squares of a solid purple and, get this, brown and purple mushrooms. It didn't hold my interest and years later when it came back to me it still didn't hold my interest and I gave it away unfinished. No I don't wish it back. That long ago, quilts were generally made for one reason; to cover a bed and/or keep someone warm. And quilts followed a traditional layout format. The quilts I made did just that. I was also under the influence of Gees Bend type quilter as my mother used every piece of leftover fabric to make utilitarian quilts; quilts to keep us warm with a worn blanket as batting.
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It wasn't until I began quilting more in the 90"s when I had more time, did I think about color and design. My basic sewing techniques gradually improved whether it was in garments or quilts. I've never thought of myself as an artist as I don't draw, but the more I explored with color the more I became an artist. We use our artistic talents differently as we come into the art of quilting from differing perspectives, capabilities, and experiences. I love working with color and have been self taught in it's usage and then some days I throw it out the window and go by my instincts! We find techniques that we enjoy. I've tried many and let many go. I am at the stage of life that I want to narrow my "new" techniques; i.e., I have no desire to own an embroidery machine. I don't enjoy making folded flowers...I'd rather work on my miniatures and tiny quilts. I'm enjoying doing a little improv sewing utilizing the lessons I have learned along the way. It seems I'm always thinking of what quilt I want to do next (or which UFO I should finish) and answer Peckish's question, "what if, I...?"

Re: art quilts/quality workmanship I have some talented artists in my family, my daughter is very good at replicating items, but my son was so much more creative with his stick drawn characters of battle scenes etc. It was like a Bayeux Tapestry of pencil drawings from his own imagination strewn around his room. It is a gift he handed down to his 10 yo son who has the drawing talents of his auntie. Because I lack these talents I appreciate them in any genre. I see the creativity before I see the technique whether well done or "poorly" done, knowing I would have trouble coming up with the idea. I am less concerned about having everything perfect as oftentimes the imperfections gives humanity to the art. Could the person who made the insensitive remark come up with an original idea?

We are fortunate to be able to express ourselves at whatever level we are capable of and derive satisfaction from that expression. I sincerely hope you can again find yourself in your art.

Interesting thoughts.

I'll probably never make anything that could be called an "art quilt." I've painted portraits professionally, put out a line of prints of my pen and ink works, designed craft projects for a polymer clay manufacturer, taught painting and polymer clay classes - I rarely got anything approaching "art" in any of my attempts, but I kept trying.

The more I learn about how to do something, the closer I get to mastering a technique, the freer I can get, because I have a better idea of what will work for the look that I want. I think that understanding the process is the key to freedom.

I'm only engrossed in techniques until I discover an easier way, a more precise way or a way that is somehow "better" than what I'm already doing.

My husband calls me a "serial specialist," because I obsess with something until I'm done with it and then go on to the next obsession. :D

i guess it is like anything, such as playing sports. you have to go through the repetitive drills and manuevers, then eventually, when you are skilled, you can add your new abilities into the greater picture (the sports game or your own quilt) and be a master at applying the techniques.

Any technique you learn is simply, always and ever, a tool. Personally, I follow the rules in learning the technique and perhaps in its next one or two applications in something I'm doing. I then feel it's in my knowledge coffers and when I drift from a prescribed pattern (which to me is great fun), I visit my treasure chest of things I've learned.

In that process, I have never felt stymied or that my creativity took a blow. Instead, I'm acquiring the knowledge to use that skill as I choose.

One's creativity is a gift. Protect it and use it for your personal pleasure and that of others.

For instance, I for one, do not particularly care for modern design quilts, preferring vintage looking creations. But have I ever done a modern quilt? Oh, yes indeed! For me, they're fast and they're very clean designs. The recipients usually are pleased beyond what I understand, but that's what it's all about isn't it?

And i'm sure you already know you can't please everyone. I suspect very like the person who said “I do find that so-called artists usually have such poor technique” - Jeez! I think your response to her was very considerate. I'm not sure I would have been so kind. It's frustrating that some people always assume a position above others. That is to say, if they can't find a box to stand on, they'll dig a hole for the other to stand in.

Protect your creativity. It's God-given. Appreciate that of others. Celebrate with them and borrow some of their techniques from time to time. There's only one you.

Therein is the beauty.

Find a way to enjoy each step along the way to learning your craft. The spark that got you into quilting/thread painting in the first place demanded you to learn more and be better at producing a finished lovely design.
I think I understand what you are saying when you say you have lost your creativity in the process. But, look at the talent you have gained to execute most any design you wish in a beautiful and skillful way. Doesn't that weigh out to be a generous benefit?
Yes we all aspire to be better at making quilted items. That is why we undertake the hard work and hours of practice. Just learn to respect your time and work and hopefully to love it. We may have pulled back a curtain, but, it is still amazingly fun, right?

By the way, never listen to a mean person. They are not an authority to trust or they would never speak harsh words to a fellow quilter. We, here on the board, call them the quilt police. LOL!

I tweek recipes, but I follow them exactly the first time. Then, I decide how to change them. (See orange cake recipe!)
I make stained glass windows, mosaics, and also 3D objects like spinners, candleholders, and boxes. Whatever I can solder together. I once made an applique quilt and matching glass panel!
I learn techniques so that I can change them. I find pleasure in making ideas work!

I hadn't worked on glass for a while, but when I set up my studio in my new home, I just traced a round frame and drew an abstract design to start cutting glass. The nativity scene has no glass in the background, so I had to figure out how to keep the figures upright.

Great discussion! I taught classes about color on the college level. Students who took the classes were mostly majoring in interior design or fashion design. What I observed was that interior designers could be very good, but those who understood color theory did the best work.

In my quilts, color theory is a starting point. It lets me know the type of color combinations I like best, and that's very helpful.
However, if something appeals to me, that's what I use. So I'm informed, but don't feel limited by what I know. If I like it, that's what's important.

It amazes me that I've become an "artist," because my first grade teacher held up my crayon drawing of a purple orange juicer as a bad example. If art classes weren't required to graduate from college, I would never have found my place as an artist. I still can't draw, but it doesn't matter.

When I was a judge for wearable art at a quilt show, I learned that impact was more important than technique. It was an eye opener. I think both are important.

Art quilting is beyond my abilities right now. I marvel it seeing the works of Art quilters and it is not always mastering technique but inventing new techniques. That is part of the artist vision in my opinion. Each artist quilts I have seen I view with different eyes. No two are alike and no two use the same techniques. I always say 'go for it' if you are so inclined.

I once was looking at a famous designer's quilt and noticed how sloppy it was technique-wise. That did suggest to me the idea that super-creative people (i.e., artists) are more focused on vision than technique; but I would guess there must also be artists who are no less creative and, at the same time, practice meticulous technique. Maybe it's simply a case of some people being more detail-oriented than others within the creative spectrum. I have also frequently come across the idea that creative people work in messy spaces; I'm not sure how true that is, either. I imagine there must be some brilliant artists whose work spaces are pristine?

In kindergarten we learn to stand in line. The greatest creators learn to walk to their own drummer.

Love these thoughts

The joy of quilting is that there's something for everyone who wants to participate. I love learning new techniques and improving my skills, but I also like to improvise. I view "mistakes" as problems to be solved or new directions to go in when making an art quilt and some of my best quilts have arisen from technical challenges that I had to overcome, or less than perfect techniques that I had to camouflage. Some of my worst ones have too https://cdn.quiltingboard.com/images...es/biggrin.png! I think the trick is to remember that techniques are tools nothing, more and nothing less. Having a bunch of tools in your tool kit and knowing how to use them gives you options, but the way I look at it is that's all they are, options.

Rob

Seeing many quits in the art category at many national quilt shows, I think skilled technique is not expected. The idea of what the quilter wanted to convey is the goal not the piecing. Those that see sewing flaws are not looking at the quilt as art and should just pass on by.
I have not met an artist of any medium that was swayed from their work because of what others thought of it unless it was edible. LOL

I like modern art quilts to a point but for it to be a random jumble of design, like a child with scissors and fabric then all I see is that the maker had fun making it and nothing else comes to my mind even if the artist says it is making a point about whatever is the point.
I saw the original Gee's Bend exhibit in Boston. The history made the quilts so unique. The guilts themselves were made from that history. I was awed by that history. If I saw the quilts without knowing the history I would have though much less about them.

I know the rules of quilting and the techniques to use to get good results. Sometimes I make my own rules if I want the quilt to be what I want it to be and the set rules are not working.

You are describing the process of acquiring enough skills to become able to translate a vision in your imagination into a concrete work. This tedious apprentice stage is a function of achieving mastery!

This is most evident to me in taking classes: my first real quilting class was Freddy Moran and I bless her for giving us permission to just play with the taught techniques in class without feeling we had to generate a finished work. She herself confessed to not "working well" in class, but found when she returned to her studio, the skills acquired found their way into future work.

I found it took several years of learning techniques, not all of which I liked or plan to use going forward, to get to a point where I could with some confidence "solve" any given design challenge. This has come home to me most forcefully in participating in Round Robins, where you get a quilt top in progress and must "make it better", sometimes within the limitations of a specific prompt.

I now have a suite of skills I can deploy to solve the design problem at hand...so keep at it! You won't use all the things you are learning going forward but you do take nuggets away from every class.

One of the nicest things about quilting is the many separate skill sets involved. It keeps you learning and that is good for mental health and all your little grey cells!

Such interesting posts, I'm so glad I started this! And looking back over what I wrote, how interesting it is, isn't it, that one can put ideas down that, retrospectively, seem completely to miss what one really wanted to say! Reading all the comments I can see, I think, why I wrote what I wrote - I wanted to see what others thought, more than I wanted to analyse what I think myself; because reading through everything you've all written, I find myself saying "YES! Exactly!" so often. What has really become clearer to me is how lucky we are, we who combine art and craft. Because we always do have so much to learn, which can always feed our creativity, as so many of you have pointed out. When we struggle to be creative we can still enjoy our work by turning to learning. Learning is always such a thrill, like learning more vocabulary in a foreign language, to be able to communicate something different. And fun to experiment and break rules, to find ways, using the vocabulary analogy, to say something interesting with those newly acquired words. It's such a huge subject, isn't it. As for messy work spaces, has anyone seen a wonderful little book called "7, Reece Mews"; it's a collection of photographs of the painter Francis Bacon's studio. Bacon was said to find his images, his ideas, out of the chaos around him; he couldn't work otherwise. And it really does look completely chaotic. I'm the opposite, I like to 'clear the decks' between projects, to create clear spaces so my visual field isn't cluttered with all sorts of extraneous 'noise'. How wonderful are our differences and the things we share.

Learning should be a lifelong passion; when we quit learning, something inside us has died.
Re: Creating in chaos
Unlike you, I have a messy, noisy space. I can "tune" out the clutter. Admittedly though I must do a little cleanup so I have some space to work on a larger project that needs to be started. Often times I reach a point that I must clean up the messy, turn down the volume so to speak. Yes we all work differently!

Again thanks for starting the thread.

Totally agree re lifelong passion. And I think I might be kidding myself about how tidy I ever make my workspace...!

I absolutely agree with this.

My quilting space is messy, but it is nowhere near Francis Bacon messy! That would squash my creativity; I would take one look at the mess, feel completely overwhelmed and dismayed, turn and walk away.