Artist's Dreams Guide Their Journeys

Several years ago I began dreaming about what could be done with the ancient art of feltmaking. It wasn't well defined but I was excited to try my hand anyway and see where it led. At each turn in the process of discovery, I found myself able to build on where I had been before. I kept moving the concept forward, one step at a time. Soon, my first Network Tapestry™ took shape and that journey continues today.

Little did I know that another artist - one who works in stone, glass and iron also had a vision more than 35 years before that. Just a few hours down the road from where I now make my home and art amazing things are happening. Last week, we had a chance to visit his most astonishing "studio" and see what has consumed him for over 41 years.

Since 1969, Colorado artist Jim Bishop has been making his vision come true on a scale than is hard to imagine. The "Bishop Castle" in southeastern Colorado now stands over 160 feet tall - and it's still not complete. Every stone was hand placed, every step crafted in numerous winding stairways and the whole thing was built by him alone, without plans, engineering or other "modern" methods - just one man's imagination and persistence. From vaulted ceilings to stained glass windows, the workmanship is magnificent.

After climbing to the top of the highest turret, I could not help but wonder - what makes this artist do what he does and keep it up for so long? On the way home, across green rolling hills, and the wide open spaces of Westcliffe it made me think about my own work, in comparison. Does the casual observer find it "normal"? What is "normal" anyway?

Yes, I consider geometry and shapes in arranging the layout, but I am not limited by straight edges or symmetry. My work is curvy and sensual and soft to the touch. Jim's creations seem to lean outwards. They also have a sense of playfulness and certainly draw the visitor inside (literally), just as I try to do.

What we also share is a drive to make the installation totally transform a space and the people who view it. And, we both have the strength and persistence to take our vision, adapt it as we go and persist in making the end result the best that it can be.

My advice? Listen to your dreams and let them guide your imagination and your art. There is nothing so big or complex that it can't be done - given time. Whether it's a 100 square foot felted wall tapestry or a massive castle it can become your reality, if you're only willing to try.

What's your dream?

PJ Bergin Contemporary Mixed Media Fiber Artist

Felt Art Workshop Inspires

How's this for a recipe for creativity?



Take (1) internationally-known felt maker, add (14) eager artists, mix together in the home of a premier dye and paint manufacturer and simmer for (5) whole days!




Just returned from Fall River, MA this workshop was a big step forward in my professional development.


My project piece (shown above) is sophisticated with multiple colors, fabric, yarn, coiled roving and interesting shapes all incorporated in it. The effect is highly abstract and deeply engaging with a texture that begs to be touched.

This is the second time that I have studied with Jorie Johnson who is based in Kyoto, Japan. After taking her earlier workshop and seeing some of her felt rugs in a show, I knew I wanted to learn more.

I approached Jorie and asked about moving beyond basic color dyeing. We discussed topics like layering felt of different colors, encapsulation, color blending and fiber blending. Jorie agreed to add these into her summer workshop and soon, artists from across the US and one from Denmark were on the way to another great program.

Even though I was the only one there making large scale tapestries, I always take away ideas and a new appreciation for felt making from each of the artists.

I look forward to building on the techniques I learned and working them into my newest tapestries!




PJ Bergin Contemporary Mixed Media Fiber Artist