For more than 20 years I have gone to the annual Retreat sponsored by Friends of Calligraphy which is based in San Francisco. The gathering is held at Dominican University in San Rafael, CA where all the meals are served and we each have our own room. We do our art in a large hall and have quiet times while we are working. Over the years keepsakes have been made by participants to give to each member. So, last year I made 32 individual postcards of fabric that I then quilted. Yes, I did mail them and they all were received before the Retreat.
The above cards have a variety of techniques from painting on raw silk and on fine silk, discharge (using bleach to pull out the color), weaving, applique and use of commercial ribbon. Each card is then quilted. Oh yes, I sent them without my name to see how many would guess who sent the gift.
I know that I said it was a calligraphy group, but over the years we have seen bookmaking, origami, lettering, photography, sewing, journaling and so much more. March is the next Retreat and I look forward to seeing friends. I really feel that artists have lived isolated lives and this group allows us to interact. Of course, the internet has broadened our world, but personal interaction is special. This years keepsake is a secret until after the Retreat.
