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Aug 09
in Photography Teachings 0 comments

5 Principles to be able to ‘hear with the eyes’…. the 5 “P’s”

Over the next 5 posts I will be sharing with you the 5 “P” principles which help me to ‘hear with my eyes.’ Perhaps they me be of use to you as well… in your photography as well as in your life.

 “At the root of creativity is an impulse to understand, to make sense of random and often unrelated details. For me, photography provides an intersection of time, space, light and emotional stance. One needs to be still enough, observant enough and aware enough to recognize the life of the materials, to be able to ‘hear through the eyes.” – Paul Caponigro

 

Tree-3-680x1024

 

  1. Be PRESENT

The first principle I use is to be Present. This image of a tree reminds me to be PRESENT. It reminds me to …have a strong focussed attention yet openness in the ability to receive….to  stand calmly in the space of stillness…..being whole and being a part of a bigger whole… being exactly where I am at one particular point in time and not being in the past or wishing to be in the future, just being steadfast wholly in the moment. Blah, blah… but let me explain further about my perception of being PRESENT… and how this image for me triggers the ‘note to self’, because of the association I have now with its characteristics.

Here goes….

How many times have I  got out of the car, walked around to the other side… taken out my tripod and not even had any awareness or remembering that I have done that? How many times have I just put myself on auto-pilot, and let my body take me somewhere whilst my head was thinking about something else? How many times have not remembered where I have put something ??? Heaps!! !!! Because when I was doing those things, I was not totally present. But I am endeavouring to change this through my understanding of the importance of being PRESENT! 🙂

For me being PRESENT is being aware of myself and my environment in any particular point in time.  I read a wonderful Zen sentence years ago – which has probably morphed over time but the message is likely still the same… and that is- “When I wash the dishes – I wash the dishes.” I remind myself of this phrase all the time. When I find myself wandering in my mind to somewhere else other than where my body is…or letting my thoughts take me into another place of conversation in my mind other than to where my intention was. Even as I write this post, I am aware that at times I have not been fully present and stopped typing and thought about something I have to arrange for tomorrow. 🙂 So being Present is a work in progress for me… yet I have experienced the wonderful benefits of it… and continue to hold being PRESENT as a goal to which I aspire, so that I don’t let moments of my life go past without me fully noticing  or fully experiencing them.

Being PRESENT for me is being aware of information through my senses ; being aware of my thoughts and emotions at any point in time; but not being defined by them…and to observe them and let them wash through me .

Being PRESENT for me is having focussed attention to the task at hand, so that all my energy and awareness is on the thing which I have chosen to do.

Being PRESENT is allowing the stillness and Silence between each breath so that every new breath is a clean palette for which my new observation and awareness can be experienced.

 

Paul Caponigro said that  .. “one needs to be still enough, observant enough and aware enough….”. In the stillness there is silence. In the silence I can hear my inner voice. I can only hear my inner voice if I am PRESENT to be able to hear it. For me… the stillness; the Silence- is the jewel of my existence. It is from this place of Silence where not only my creative voice comes; but my guidance, intuition and the essence of who I am has the space to speak. My training ground for learning to connect with stillness and Silence is through my yoga practice and Meditation and then I endeavour to apply that learning in my everyday life.

Being observant is employing all my senses to take in information around and within me. In includes noticing details; sensory details from my senses…as well as noticing the details of how my body physically and emotionally reacts and responds to these sensory cues.

Being aware is more than the jewel…it is the whole jewellery box for me!!! Having Awareness for me is my ultimate goal… Awareness is a state of being. Awareness is a place of witnessing everything without attachment. Awareness is for me a place where I am with no beginning…..no past…no future… no end… I am just experiencing fully and totally that which is, and I am, in that moment. I have tasted that feeling, and I want to explore Self-Awareness…. and photography helps me with this.

I cannot begin to develop Self-Awareness unless I am Present. Being Present is also about freedom – having the freedom to explore the nature of exploration itself; without the limitations of an expectation of an outcome.

…So apart from my own philosophising 🙂 ….. being PRESENT is a really important first step, to enable me to observe and witness not only my surroundings; but also my own personal response to that information or experience.  Perhaps it is for you too… and worth some consideration.

Next post….. have PASSION.

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About the Author: Julie
I am a Journeywoman. I live my life as an explorer. An adventurer. An Observer. An Artist. There is no differentiation between how I live my life and the art that is an expression of it. It is through my experience adventuring the unknown, that I learn more about myself. My aim through this connection is to live where my expression is fully in alignment with the essence of who I am. “In the field of Fine-Art Photography, Julie stands apart from others with the way she sees the world and expresses her connection within it. Julie Stephenson’s photographs are sublime. Her work is an expression of her deep connection; and a gift to the world.”

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@skeinydipping

@skeinydipping

🧐 Curious 🎨 Creative 💪🏻 Living Boldly! @idoamazingthings 😁 Content with wool in my hands Artisan weaver of blankets and wraps. Pop to my website
  • With my little fingers I was unknowingly laying the foundations for what would nourish me and be a part of my creative expression, 55 years later. 

Come along and join me for more of my stitched and woven stories; here and there’s also more in my Link in Bio.

#madebyhand #embroideryartist #textileartist #handwoven #embroiderylove
  • An item I made 55 years ago has unwittingly earned its place in my small treasure box — a place it now so obviously deserves.

At nine years old, I had no idea I would now be embroidering stitches on blankets I’d hand woven from memories of my journeys around the world. 

Something I enjoyed as a child, I must have sensed deep within me was important — something I would one day return to. 

With my young fingers and hands, I was unknowingly laying the foundations for what would nourish me and become an expression of who I am.

Stitching these motifs is the ritual completion of the blanket. For me it encompasses gratitude for all that has gone into its creation; from my experiences to the processes of weaving. 

These motifs I keep secret until the blanket finds its new home — just a little surprise for its new owner. My current Kolkata, Mullik Ghat series will be released in a few weeks time.

What’s something you’ve continued that you’re surprised you started in childhood?

Come along and join me for more of my stitched and woven stories.

#artisanmade #embroidered #embroideryart #weaving #fibreart
  • What would I use this basket for? 

For 45 years, I’ve loved to feel natural fleece in my hands. There’s something very humbling about recognising where wool originates, and feeling the soft greasy fleece in my hands is very special; and to be able to weave into my blankets some of my own handspun yarn is very gratifying.  

I like to rinse the fleece before preparing and spinning it. 

I’ve tried several methods and this one suits me best, and the basket is perfect. Allows gentle rinsing without any felting. 

Why not save this tip to try, if you can get your hands onto some greasy fleece, and for more come follow along.

#weaving #Handspinning #fleece #fibreart #weaver
  • This is my top number ONE Pro-tip.

Do you want meaningful work - or empty trash?!

I’m a visual artist and weaver, and this number one tip for meaningful work is for all creatives and your chosen medium! 

‘Tell your stories from your own experiences!’

That’s it! 

My latest body of work is based on the Mullik Ghat markets in Kolkata India, where we drove our vintage car through India, Bhutan and Myanmar.  

For more - Come follow along! 

#artisanmade #roadtripindia #weaving #creativetips #protip
  • The cacophony of fragrance and colour on the backdrop of damp grey fog of the Mullik Ghat Markets Kolkata; was incredible!

I wasn’t expecting this place to leave its mark so deeply, and is the foundation for my current body of work.

The key to creating work with meaning, whether you’re a weaver or using another medium; is to tell your own stories from your lived experience.

Perhaps you could save this tip to try for your next project; and instead of thinking about things like colour or shape; why not think of a memory instead. 

Love to know how you go!

For more creative tips - come along and follow!

#creativetips #kolkata #weaving #travelart #madebyhand
  • Here’s a different kind of pro-tip; and it comes from a lifetime of unexpected surprises! 

It’s never just about technique, but it’s all about telling stories from our lived experience.

I wasn’t expecting this place to leave its mark so deeply. 

The cacophony of fragrance and colour on the backdrop of damp grey fog of the Mullik Ghat Markets Kolkata, India ; was incredible!

As an artist, the most valuable insight I’ve gained is that meaningful work must come from lived experience. 

Technique alone can create pieces, but only lived experience can fill them with meaning.  

Whether you are a weaver or a creative working in another medium, the key to creating work with meaning is to tell your personal stories. 

Connect with your memory before you even think of colour or shape. Give it a try! 

Perhaps you could save, and try this pro-tip for your next project and see how your work evolves with this dedicated intention.
For more - come Follow along. 

#artisanmade #roadtrip #interiordesign #protip #weaving
  • When I begin weaving, I have no idea what it will end up looking like 

I never have a plan because I weave intuitively from my memories 

Here I’m weaving my memories from the Mullik Ghat flower markets in Kolkata, India. 

As I weave, I roll it, then becomes hidden. It’s always such a surprise to see my stories revealed in my blankets when I unroll it from my loom. 

You could try this in your form of art as well. .

Try starting with a memory, and remember the colours of your experiences. 

You can save this idea for your next project; and for my journal notes on inspiration for this series - Kolkata; pop to my link in Bio. 

Come follow along with me! 

#weaving #weavingloom #weavinglife #madebyhand #artisanmade
  • Weaving is “like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re going to get.”

When I begin weaving, I have no idea how it will turn out.

I always start with memories; and I never have a plan. 

In my latest Series, I’m weaving my memories from our vintage car roadtrip; and the Mullik Ghat flower markets in Kolkata, India. 

Colour is my thing. I don’t have a colour plan because I weave intuitively, and I don’t remember what colours I’ve used. 

As I weave, I roll the fabric onto the back beam, and it then becomes hidden. When I’ve finished the weaving and I unroll my  piece from the back beam - it’s always such a surprise to see my stories revealed in my blankets. 

Why don’t you try to weave without a plan? You could try this in any creative medium as well. 

Start with a memory, and remember the colours of that experience. Then just go for it, and play! 

You can save this tip for later; for my journal notes on inspiration for this series - Kolkata; pop to my link in Bio; and for more creative ideas, come follow along. 

#handweaving #madebyhand #arttips #roadtripindia #weaver
  • Are you floundering with making a project meaningful? 

As an artist for most of my life, who has meandered and searched for meaning within my own work; I have a couple of tips for you. 

If you don’t know where to start, think of an experience that is meaningful to you. Recall the colours. 

Just start there! 
Tip 1. Remember the colours.
Tip 2. Use ONLY those colours.

A meaningful experience for me was our journey to Kolkata and the Mullik Ghat Flower Markets, and is the  inspiration for my handwoven blankets. 

You can save these tips for future reference for your next project. Let me know how you go!

For more, come Follow along. 

#artisanmade #handweaving #madebyhand #artisttips #visualstorytelling
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@skeinydipping
@skeinydipping
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With my little fingers I was unknowingly laying the foundations for what would nourish me and be a part of my creative expression, 55 years later.  Come along and join me for more of my stitched and woven stories; here and there’s also more in my Link in Bio. #madebyhand #embroideryartist #textileartist #handwoven #embroiderylove
2 days ago
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@skeinydipping
@skeinydipping
•
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An item I made 55 years ago has unwittingly earned its place in my small treasure box — a place it now so obviously deserves. At nine years old, I had no idea I would now be embroidering stitches on blankets I’d hand woven from memories of my journeys around the world.  Something I enjoyed as a child, I must have sensed deep within me was important — something I would one day return to.  With my young fingers and hands, I was unknowingly laying the foundations for what would nourish me and become an expression of who I am. Stitching these motifs is the ritual completion of the blanket. For me it encompasses gratitude for all that has gone into its creation; from my experiences to the processes of weaving.  These motifs I keep secret until the blanket finds its new home — just a little surprise for its new owner. My current Kolkata, Mullik Ghat series will be released in a few weeks time. What’s something you’ve continued that you’re surprised you started in childhood? Come along and join me for more of my stitched and woven stories. #artisanmade #embroidered #embroideryart #weaving #fibreart
2 days ago
View on Instagram |
2/9
@skeinydipping
@skeinydipping
•
Follow
What would I use this basket for?  For 45 years, I’ve loved to feel natural fleece in my hands. There’s something very humbling about recognising where wool originates, and feeling the soft greasy fleece in my hands is very special; and to be able to weave into my blankets some of my own handspun yarn is very gratifying.   I like to rinse the fleece before preparing and spinning it.  I’ve tried several methods and this one suits me best, and the basket is perfect. Allows gentle rinsing without any felting. Why not save this tip to try, if you can get your hands onto some greasy fleece, and for more come follow along. #weaving #Handspinning #fleece #fibreart #weaver
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
3/9
@skeinydipping
@skeinydipping
•
Follow
This is my top number ONE Pro-tip. Do you want meaningful work - or empty trash?! I’m a visual artist and weaver, and this number one tip for meaningful work is for all creatives and your chosen medium!  ‘Tell your stories from your own experiences!’ That’s it!  My latest body of work is based on the Mullik Ghat markets in Kolkata India, where we drove our vintage car through India, Bhutan and Myanmar.   For more - Come follow along! #artisanmade #roadtripindia #weaving #creativetips #protip
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
4/9
@skeinydipping
@skeinydipping
•
Follow
The cacophony of fragrance and colour on the backdrop of damp grey fog of the Mullik Ghat Markets Kolkata; was incredible! I wasn’t expecting this place to leave its mark so deeply, and is the foundation for my current body of work. The key to creating work with meaning, whether you’re a weaver or using another medium; is to tell your own stories from your lived experience. Perhaps you could save this tip to try for your next project; and instead of thinking about things like colour or shape; why not think of a memory instead. Love to know how you go! For more creative tips - come along and follow! #creativetips #kolkata #weaving #travelart #madebyhand
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
5/9
@skeinydipping
@skeinydipping
•
Follow
Here’s a different kind of pro-tip; and it comes from a lifetime of unexpected surprises! It’s never just about technique, but it’s all about telling stories from our lived experience. I wasn’t expecting this place to leave its mark so deeply.  The cacophony of fragrance and colour on the backdrop of damp grey fog of the Mullik Ghat Markets Kolkata, India ; was incredible! As an artist, the most valuable insight I’ve gained is that meaningful work must come from lived experience.  Technique alone can create pieces, but only lived experience can fill them with meaning.  Whether you are a weaver or a creative working in another medium, the key to creating work with meaning is to tell your personal stories. Connect with your memory before you even think of colour or shape. Give it a try! Perhaps you could save, and try this pro-tip for your next project and see how your work evolves with this dedicated intention. For more - come Follow along. #artisanmade #roadtrip #interiordesign #protip #weaving
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
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@skeinydipping
@skeinydipping
•
Follow
When I begin weaving, I have no idea what it will end up looking like I never have a plan because I weave intuitively from my memories Here I’m weaving my memories from the Mullik Ghat flower markets in Kolkata, India.  As I weave, I roll it, then becomes hidden. It’s always such a surprise to see my stories revealed in my blankets when I unroll it from my loom. You could try this in your form of art as well. . Try starting with a memory, and remember the colours of your experiences. You can save this idea for your next project; and for my journal notes on inspiration for this series - Kolkata; pop to my link in Bio. Come follow along with me! #weaving #weavingloom #weavinglife #madebyhand #artisanmade
3 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
7/9
@skeinydipping
@skeinydipping
•
Follow
Weaving is “like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re going to get.” When I begin weaving, I have no idea how it will turn out. I always start with memories; and I never have a plan.  In my latest Series, I’m weaving my memories from our vintage car roadtrip; and the Mullik Ghat flower markets in Kolkata, India.  Colour is my thing. I don’t have a colour plan because I weave intuitively, and I don’t remember what colours I’ve used. As I weave, I roll the fabric onto the back beam, and it then becomes hidden. When I’ve finished the weaving and I unroll my  piece from the back beam - it’s always such a surprise to see my stories revealed in my blankets.  Why don’t you try to weave without a plan? You could try this in any creative medium as well. Start with a memory, and remember the colours of that experience. Then just go for it, and play!  You can save this tip for later; for my journal notes on inspiration for this series - Kolkata; pop to my link in Bio; and for more creative ideas, come follow along. #handweaving #madebyhand #arttips #roadtripindia #weaver
3 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
8/9
@skeinydipping
@skeinydipping
•
Follow
Are you floundering with making a project meaningful?  As an artist for most of my life, who has meandered and searched for meaning within my own work; I have a couple of tips for you.  If you don’t know where to start, think of an experience that is meaningful to you. Recall the colours.  Just start there!  Tip 1. Remember the colours. Tip 2. Use ONLY those colours. A meaningful experience for me was our journey to Kolkata and the Mullik Ghat Flower Markets, and is the  inspiration for my handwoven blankets.  You can save these tips for future reference for your next project. Let me know how you go! For more, come Follow along.  #artisanmade #handweaving #madebyhand #artisttips #visualstorytelling
4 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
9/9

 

 

 

@skeinydipping

@skeinydipping

🧐 Curious 🎨 Creative 💪🏻 Living Boldly! @idoamazingthings 😁 Content with wool in my hands Artisan weaver of blankets and wraps. Pop to my website
  • With my little fingers I was unknowingly laying the foundations for what would nourish me and be a part of my creative expression, 55 years later. 

Come along and join me for more of my stitched and woven stories; here and there’s also more in my Link in Bio.

#madebyhand #embroideryartist #textileartist #handwoven #embroiderylove
  • An item I made 55 years ago has unwittingly earned its place in my small treasure box — a place it now so obviously deserves.

At nine years old, I had no idea I would now be embroidering stitches on blankets I’d hand woven from memories of my journeys around the world. 

Something I enjoyed as a child, I must have sensed deep within me was important — something I would one day return to. 

With my young fingers and hands, I was unknowingly laying the foundations for what would nourish me and become an expression of who I am.

Stitching these motifs is the ritual completion of the blanket. For me it encompasses gratitude for all that has gone into its creation; from my experiences to the processes of weaving. 

These motifs I keep secret until the blanket finds its new home — just a little surprise for its new owner. My current Kolkata, Mullik Ghat series will be released in a few weeks time.

What’s something you’ve continued that you’re surprised you started in childhood?

Come along and join me for more of my stitched and woven stories.

#artisanmade #embroidered #embroideryart #weaving #fibreart
  • What would I use this basket for? 

For 45 years, I’ve loved to feel natural fleece in my hands. There’s something very humbling about recognising where wool originates, and feeling the soft greasy fleece in my hands is very special; and to be able to weave into my blankets some of my own handspun yarn is very gratifying.  

I like to rinse the fleece before preparing and spinning it. 

I’ve tried several methods and this one suits me best, and the basket is perfect. Allows gentle rinsing without any felting. 

Why not save this tip to try, if you can get your hands onto some greasy fleece, and for more come follow along.

#weaving #Handspinning #fleece #fibreart #weaver
  • This is my top number ONE Pro-tip.

Do you want meaningful work - or empty trash?!

I’m a visual artist and weaver, and this number one tip for meaningful work is for all creatives and your chosen medium! 

‘Tell your stories from your own experiences!’

That’s it! 

My latest body of work is based on the Mullik Ghat markets in Kolkata India, where we drove our vintage car through India, Bhutan and Myanmar.  

For more - Come follow along! 

#artisanmade #roadtripindia #weaving #creativetips #protip
  • The cacophony of fragrance and colour on the backdrop of damp grey fog of the Mullik Ghat Markets Kolkata; was incredible!

I wasn’t expecting this place to leave its mark so deeply, and is the foundation for my current body of work.

The key to creating work with meaning, whether you’re a weaver or using another medium; is to tell your own stories from your lived experience.

Perhaps you could save this tip to try for your next project; and instead of thinking about things like colour or shape; why not think of a memory instead. 

Love to know how you go!

For more creative tips - come along and follow!

#creativetips #kolkata #weaving #travelart #madebyhand
  • Here’s a different kind of pro-tip; and it comes from a lifetime of unexpected surprises! 

It’s never just about technique, but it’s all about telling stories from our lived experience.

I wasn’t expecting this place to leave its mark so deeply. 

The cacophony of fragrance and colour on the backdrop of damp grey fog of the Mullik Ghat Markets Kolkata, India ; was incredible!

As an artist, the most valuable insight I’ve gained is that meaningful work must come from lived experience. 

Technique alone can create pieces, but only lived experience can fill them with meaning.  

Whether you are a weaver or a creative working in another medium, the key to creating work with meaning is to tell your personal stories. 

Connect with your memory before you even think of colour or shape. Give it a try! 

Perhaps you could save, and try this pro-tip for your next project and see how your work evolves with this dedicated intention.
For more - come Follow along. 

#artisanmade #roadtrip #interiordesign #protip #weaving
  • When I begin weaving, I have no idea what it will end up looking like 

I never have a plan because I weave intuitively from my memories 

Here I’m weaving my memories from the Mullik Ghat flower markets in Kolkata, India. 

As I weave, I roll it, then becomes hidden. It’s always such a surprise to see my stories revealed in my blankets when I unroll it from my loom. 

You could try this in your form of art as well. .

Try starting with a memory, and remember the colours of your experiences. 

You can save this idea for your next project; and for my journal notes on inspiration for this series - Kolkata; pop to my link in Bio. 

Come follow along with me! 

#weaving #weavingloom #weavinglife #madebyhand #artisanmade
  • Weaving is “like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re going to get.”

When I begin weaving, I have no idea how it will turn out.

I always start with memories; and I never have a plan. 

In my latest Series, I’m weaving my memories from our vintage car roadtrip; and the Mullik Ghat flower markets in Kolkata, India. 

Colour is my thing. I don’t have a colour plan because I weave intuitively, and I don’t remember what colours I’ve used. 

As I weave, I roll the fabric onto the back beam, and it then becomes hidden. When I’ve finished the weaving and I unroll my  piece from the back beam - it’s always such a surprise to see my stories revealed in my blankets. 

Why don’t you try to weave without a plan? You could try this in any creative medium as well. 

Start with a memory, and remember the colours of that experience. Then just go for it, and play! 

You can save this tip for later; for my journal notes on inspiration for this series - Kolkata; pop to my link in Bio; and for more creative ideas, come follow along. 

#handweaving #madebyhand #arttips #roadtripindia #weaver
  • Are you floundering with making a project meaningful? 

As an artist for most of my life, who has meandered and searched for meaning within my own work; I have a couple of tips for you. 

If you don’t know where to start, think of an experience that is meaningful to you. Recall the colours. 

Just start there! 
Tip 1. Remember the colours.
Tip 2. Use ONLY those colours.

A meaningful experience for me was our journey to Kolkata and the Mullik Ghat Flower Markets, and is the  inspiration for my handwoven blankets. 

You can save these tips for future reference for your next project. Let me know how you go!

For more, come Follow along. 

#artisanmade #handweaving #madebyhand #artisttips #visualstorytelling
View on Instagram
@skeinydipping
@skeinydipping
•
Follow
With my little fingers I was unknowingly laying the foundations for what would nourish me and be a part of my creative expression, 55 years later.  Come along and join me for more of my stitched and woven stories; here and there’s also more in my Link in Bio. #madebyhand #embroideryartist #textileartist #handwoven #embroiderylove
2 days ago
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@skeinydipping
@skeinydipping
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An item I made 55 years ago has unwittingly earned its place in my small treasure box — a place it now so obviously deserves. At nine years old, I had no idea I would now be embroidering stitches on blankets I’d hand woven from memories of my journeys around the world.  Something I enjoyed as a child, I must have sensed deep within me was important — something I would one day return to.  With my young fingers and hands, I was unknowingly laying the foundations for what would nourish me and become an expression of who I am. Stitching these motifs is the ritual completion of the blanket. For me it encompasses gratitude for all that has gone into its creation; from my experiences to the processes of weaving.  These motifs I keep secret until the blanket finds its new home — just a little surprise for its new owner. My current Kolkata, Mullik Ghat series will be released in a few weeks time. What’s something you’ve continued that you’re surprised you started in childhood? Come along and join me for more of my stitched and woven stories. #artisanmade #embroidered #embroideryart #weaving #fibreart
2 days ago
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2/9
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What would I use this basket for?  For 45 years, I’ve loved to feel natural fleece in my hands. There’s something very humbling about recognising where wool originates, and feeling the soft greasy fleece in my hands is very special; and to be able to weave into my blankets some of my own handspun yarn is very gratifying.   I like to rinse the fleece before preparing and spinning it.  I’ve tried several methods and this one suits me best, and the basket is perfect. Allows gentle rinsing without any felting. Why not save this tip to try, if you can get your hands onto some greasy fleece, and for more come follow along. #weaving #Handspinning #fleece #fibreart #weaver
1 week ago
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3/9
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This is my top number ONE Pro-tip. Do you want meaningful work - or empty trash?! I’m a visual artist and weaver, and this number one tip for meaningful work is for all creatives and your chosen medium!  ‘Tell your stories from your own experiences!’ That’s it!  My latest body of work is based on the Mullik Ghat markets in Kolkata India, where we drove our vintage car through India, Bhutan and Myanmar.   For more - Come follow along! #artisanmade #roadtripindia #weaving #creativetips #protip
2 weeks ago
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The cacophony of fragrance and colour on the backdrop of damp grey fog of the Mullik Ghat Markets Kolkata; was incredible! I wasn’t expecting this place to leave its mark so deeply, and is the foundation for my current body of work. The key to creating work with meaning, whether you’re a weaver or using another medium; is to tell your own stories from your lived experience. Perhaps you could save this tip to try for your next project; and instead of thinking about things like colour or shape; why not think of a memory instead. Love to know how you go! For more creative tips - come along and follow! #creativetips #kolkata #weaving #travelart #madebyhand
2 weeks ago
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Here’s a different kind of pro-tip; and it comes from a lifetime of unexpected surprises! It’s never just about technique, but it’s all about telling stories from our lived experience. I wasn’t expecting this place to leave its mark so deeply.  The cacophony of fragrance and colour on the backdrop of damp grey fog of the Mullik Ghat Markets Kolkata, India ; was incredible! As an artist, the most valuable insight I’ve gained is that meaningful work must come from lived experience.  Technique alone can create pieces, but only lived experience can fill them with meaning.  Whether you are a weaver or a creative working in another medium, the key to creating work with meaning is to tell your personal stories. Connect with your memory before you even think of colour or shape. Give it a try! Perhaps you could save, and try this pro-tip for your next project and see how your work evolves with this dedicated intention. For more - come Follow along. #artisanmade #roadtrip #interiordesign #protip #weaving
2 weeks ago
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When I begin weaving, I have no idea what it will end up looking like I never have a plan because I weave intuitively from my memories Here I’m weaving my memories from the Mullik Ghat flower markets in Kolkata, India.  As I weave, I roll it, then becomes hidden. It’s always such a surprise to see my stories revealed in my blankets when I unroll it from my loom. You could try this in your form of art as well. . Try starting with a memory, and remember the colours of your experiences. You can save this idea for your next project; and for my journal notes on inspiration for this series - Kolkata; pop to my link in Bio. Come follow along with me! #weaving #weavingloom #weavinglife #madebyhand #artisanmade
3 weeks ago
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Weaving is “like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re going to get.” When I begin weaving, I have no idea how it will turn out. I always start with memories; and I never have a plan.  In my latest Series, I’m weaving my memories from our vintage car roadtrip; and the Mullik Ghat flower markets in Kolkata, India.  Colour is my thing. I don’t have a colour plan because I weave intuitively, and I don’t remember what colours I’ve used. As I weave, I roll the fabric onto the back beam, and it then becomes hidden. When I’ve finished the weaving and I unroll my  piece from the back beam - it’s always such a surprise to see my stories revealed in my blankets.  Why don’t you try to weave without a plan? You could try this in any creative medium as well. Start with a memory, and remember the colours of that experience. Then just go for it, and play!  You can save this tip for later; for my journal notes on inspiration for this series - Kolkata; pop to my link in Bio; and for more creative ideas, come follow along. #handweaving #madebyhand #arttips #roadtripindia #weaver
3 weeks ago
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Are you floundering with making a project meaningful?  As an artist for most of my life, who has meandered and searched for meaning within my own work; I have a couple of tips for you.  If you don’t know where to start, think of an experience that is meaningful to you. Recall the colours.  Just start there!  Tip 1. Remember the colours. Tip 2. Use ONLY those colours. A meaningful experience for me was our journey to Kolkata and the Mullik Ghat Flower Markets, and is the  inspiration for my handwoven blankets.  You can save these tips for future reference for your next project. Let me know how you go! For more, come Follow along.  #artisanmade #handweaving #madebyhand #artisttips #visualstorytelling
4 weeks ago
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9/9
2025 All photographs created by and property of Julie Stephenson.