Valerie Kirk

I enjoyed the challenge of creating a journal using craft and design skills, exploring ideas freely and experimentally.

Working away from my studio I had a small travel kit of art pens, pencils, paint, and recycled/found paper to sketch images relating to the daily word and simplify for hand and machine stitch through design processes. No new materials were purchased to be environmentally sustainable - an op-shopped shirt and black thread became my journal. Embracing ideas of the Slow Stitch movement I worked of the recycled garment each evening and into the wee small hours. I aimed to be present, mindful, and creative, word by word, stitch by stitch.

The entire garment was used as a canvas. The stitching goes over seams, under the collar and cuffs, and across the button band.

The motifs in embroidery developed with the words of the day and my everyday experience; being observant, processing my environment, interests, and refining the stitch designs to make the work achievable within the timeframe. Various stitches and thread thicknesses were used along with fabric applique expressively.

Each number of the day is chain-stitched beside the image.  #s are stitched into the shirt with references for the project. My signature is embroidered on the inside cuff to celebrate the handmade, unique, upcycled shirt.

As I was house and dog-sitting on the Gold Coast, there is a coastal and tropical vibe embracing the environment and sustainability in the subject matter. I loved the photoshoot on the beach with student and new friend, Dee who modelled the finished journal. 31 days of inspiration and creative company online. Thankyou to everyone who made it happen.