Water as Inspiration for Fiber Artist PJ Bergin

WATER AS INSPIRATION

“My inspiration often comes from the flow of nearby whitewater. The constantly changing aspect of light playing on a river’s endless journey also occurs when viewing my work. This flow of water and the energy that comes with it has special effect on a person’s well-being and outlook. Such is the influence created with a my Network TapestryTM”

- PJ Bergin

Couching: Interpreting the Dressmaker’s Embroidery Technique Couching – Not What You Might Think!

During this festive time of year, a winter’s nap by the fireside is most welcome after indulging in the pleasures of some spiced eggnog and many delights of the holiday table. From the French, the verb “coucher” dates back hundreds of years and also means “laying something down”.

Fiber artists attribute a special meaning to the technique of “couching”. PJ interprets the dressmaker’s embroidery skill in her Network TapestryTM in a new way altogether. Using colored metal wire and a zigzag stitch, the couched threads add yet another dimension to the felted patterns, catching daylight and highlighting all the curves and designs of the piece.

Far from the passive definition, “couching” is just one way that PJ actively engages the viewer in her art. See it for yourself!