Julie Marks Blackstone's
French Knot Embroideries
My fibers work is an extension of my teaching. Nearly anything can be utilized as a teaching opportunity, after all. Years ago, as a faculty development exercise, I took an embroidery workshop from Baylor's amazing fibers teacher Mary Ruth Smith, and though I'd never considered fibers as my primary medium, I found myself intrigued and inspired. I began playing with combining the visual color mixing techniques I teach in Color Theory classes, along with arbitrary color experiments, and found that utilizing the French knot technique was a satisfying exercise in creativity...and developing patience. Just an experiment or two later, I submitted my first embroidery piece for exhibit in a regional juried show, and was pleasantly surprised at the reception it received. Since that time I've had work accepted at the Fiber Artists of Oklahoma annual "Fiberworks" exhibit every year, with three "best of shows" awards in the bargain. I've also had work accepted in juried national shows, including three pieces that have toured with the Handweavers' Guild of America "Small Expressions" exhibits.
Having my work shown alongside Pam Husky and Stephanie Grubbs is a bit like accomplishing a "fiber artists hall of fame" goal. It's difficult for me to imagine that my work is considered worthy. In my mind, I'd insert a GIF from Wayne's World about now. I've admired both artists for decades. Stephanie is one of the only other artists I know who is patient enough--or crazy enough--to use a technique so time-consuming. Her technique is one that I'd love to learn, but I also worry that it would be one more technique that I'd struggle to make time for: its intricacies are marvelous and visually stunning. Pam's work is an exquisite counterpoint in scale to our small works. Her felting techniques have always fascinated me: the idea that one might "paint" with fiber in such a powerful way is incredible. I am in awe of these talented artists!
- Julie Marks Blackstone