Mary Fisher's Studio

Happy Birthday to Dorothy Kampengele

2011-08-26T13:29:00.003-07:00

Happy Birthday to Dorothy Kampengele. Dorothy is a member of the Abataka Women Artisans Association of Zambia. She has been creating beautiful jewelry for the Abataka Collection which can be purchased at www.maryfisher.com

You can read more about Dorothy, her family, her dreams, and her life at African Artisans in the ABATAKA Collection - Mary Fisher AIDS Advocacy

Happy Birthday to Anna Chisale

2011-08-13T08:40:00.002-07:00

Anna Chisale works with the Abataka Women Artisans Association of Zambia. She has been making beautiful jewelry designed by Mary Fisher for many years. She also makes jewelry with beads local to Zambia, which are sold at the Arcades market. You can view her picture and biography on my web site African Artisans in the ABATAKA Collection - Mary Fisher AIDS Advocacy

Natural dyes

2011-07-20T12:11:00.000-07:00

Opening the wrapped bundles from the dye bath is like opening a present. Sometimes an item will act as a resist in the dye pot. Daikon radishes seem to do this, while also leaving a lovely pink imprint. The more yellow fabric was from the addition of saffron and curry. I am often surprised at the color that comes from an item that is a dark brown- it may not even be brown when it dyes onto the silk. I love the unpredictable nature of this process. Sometimes I can get color from fresh leaves, but also a totally different color from a drier more dead leaf. I recently requested a shipping of plant clippings from Florida just to see what a different region would do.

Dyeing with plants

2011-07-17T12:04:00.000-07:00

After collecting all the leaves, twigs, flowers and stalks around my house or studio ( or down the street.....), I have been working mostly on silk to experiment with the dyeing. I love the feel and drape of silk but it is also takes dyes so beautifully. I lay all my leaves and items on a piece of silk and fold and wrap it tightly to dunk it in the dye bath. These pieces have just come out of the bath.

Dyeing with plants, flowers, leaves

2011-07-14T12:07:00.000-07:00

I have been creating a dye bath for dipping my wrapped bundles. My stove top often has more pots of dye cooking than soup! I can immerse my wrapped bundles into a bath of additional items. Rhubarb stalks, leaves, berries, seaweed, and you will even see a piece of rebar in this pot. I am finding that the addition of vinegar sometimes will boost the color I get from a collection of items in the pot. It simmers away for most of the day.

India Flint Dyeing

2011-07-12T11:58:00.000-07:00

I took the most exciting class with India Flint at the Surface Design Conference in Minneapolis in June. India dyes with ecologically sustainable materials. It has given a whole new meaning to lawn clippings for me. I find myself looking at each leaf, branch, flower and seed in a whole new way. I travel with a pair of clippers or scissors and snip from anything that looks like it might give me some color or pattern on cloth.

Happy Birthday Esnart Nambeye

2011-06-27T13:57:00.002-07:00

Happy Birthday Esnart.

Read the touching story of Esnart and her continued struggle with cervical cancer. We are so proud of her for the fight she continues to put up against this disease, which is much more common in women who are HIV positive. Esnart always has a smile on her face and we honor her on her birthday.

African Artisans in the ABATAKA Collection - Mary Fisher AIDS Advocacy

Happy Birthday to Emely Namfukwe

2011-06-21T13:52:00.002-07:00

Happy Birthday to Emely Namfukwe. Emely continues to create beautiful jewelry for the Abataka Collection sold here
Mary Fisher's Gallery Home Page

Emely has been working with Mary Fisher for more than four years and her life has changed as a result of her income. She still struggles to make ends meet and wants to return to school to complete her high school education. Read about Emely hereAfrican Artisans in the ABATAKA Collection - Mary Fisher AIDS Advocacy

Happy Birthday to Edina Banda

2011-06-19T13:37:00.002-07:00

Happy Birthday to Edina Banda.

Read Edina's story- it will touch your heart. She has a beautiful son and is working hard in the Abataka program to keep making money so she can support him. She has been working with Mary Fisher creating jewelry which can be purchased at Mary Fisher's Gallery Home Page.

She also creates jewelry made with local Zambian beads. The jewelry is sold at Arcades on the weekends at the market in Lusaka, Zambia. Edina has been an inspiration to us all and we are so proud of her.

Edina's story can be read here

African Artisans in the ABATAKA Collection - Mary Fisher AIDS Advocacy

Happy Birthday Esnart!

2011-05-02T14:03:00.001-07:00

On a trip to Zambia in August 2010, we were able to catch up on Esnart's life. With tears in our eyes, we recalled the deaths of her twins. With warmth in our hearts, we were able to see how her strength has helped her to continue living and making beautiful jewelry. Esnart, who now also uses the name Esta Nyirenda, is still making jewelry and caring for her three children. She smiles to show off the replacement tooth in the front of her mouth. Although she still struggles to make ends meet, she feels that God has blessed her. Happy Birthday Esnart.

Read Esnart's story here:
African Artisans in the ABATAKA Collection - Mary Fisher AIDS Advocacy

Happy Birthday to Dorothy Ngoma

2011-04-17T13:37:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday to Dorothy Ngoma. Dorothy has been a faithful member of the Abataka beaders as well as a member of the Abataka Women Artisans Association of Zambia for many years. Her life has been one filled with trials and problems yet she has always found the energy and time to come together with the other women of the Abataka group. Dorothy is HIV+ and her life continues to be a struggle. However, she still joins the women in song as they create beautiful jewelry together.

Read Dorothy's story at African Artisans in the ABATAKA Collection - Mary Fisher AIDS Advocacy

Happy Birthday to Dorothy Ngoma

2011-04-17T13:33:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Bertha Zyambo

2011-01-26T08:55:00.002-07:00

Follow this link to read the biography of Bertha Zambo, a talented beader who lives in Zambia.African Artisans in the ABATAKA Collection - Mary Fisher AIDS Advocacy
Bertha has a birthday today and I wish her much health and happiness. She beads so beautifully and I am so honored to have her as part of my group of beaders in Zambia.
Bertha is a member of the Abataka Women Artisans Association of Zambia. Visit their Facebook page.Facebook | Abataka Women Artisans Association of Zambia
Happy Birthday Bertha.

Jan Beaney & Jean Littlejohn Class - Callaway Gardens, January 2011

2011-01-25T20:19:00.001-07:00

I took a class with Jan Beaney & Jean Littlejohn at Callaway Gardens. I wanted to share some photos - they include layers of stitching, painted fabric, beading, and dimensional stitching.

Art Bra exhibit

2010-12-23T14:25:00.000-07:00

While in Houston for the International Quilt Festival, I enjoyed the Art Bra exhibit. The 2011 calendar was for sale there, but, even more exciting, many of the actual bras from this and previous calendars were there on display. This bra was done by my good friend from Sedona, Anne Emerson. Titled Neptune's Daughter, this bra was just one of many amazing, unique, and artistic entries. The proceeds go to further Breast Cancer research and awareness.

Houston International Quilt Festival "Art and Soul" exhibit

2010-12-19T19:53:00.000-07:00

The "Art and Soul" exhibit consisted of 27 quilts. Many of these are available on my web site, along with the artist statements. Others will be part of an exhibit in Florida in January 2012.

It is so rewarding to have people appreciate the work that has been done by the women in Zambia. The jewelry area was busy and I was touched by the desire of so many to purchase jewelry which provides income for HIV+ women in Africa.

Houston International Quilt Festival

2010-12-16T19:48:00.000-07:00

Houston International Quilt Festival has ended. It was an amazing show and I was so pleased to be there with another exhibit. My booth was full of people looking, buying, and sharing stories with me. I had jewelry from the Abataka Collection, made by my wonderful sisters in Zambia. Also, quilts from my exhibit entitled "Art and Soul." I have some brochures left if any of you are interested in receiving you. Send me your mailing address and I will be glad to send it to you.

Happy Birthday to Bertha Mutale

2010-12-02T08:45:00.002-07:00

This is Bertha Mutale. I have worked with her for several years in Zambia. She makes beautiful jewelry and has been a part of the Abataka Women Artisans Association since it started. Happy Birthday Bertha.

World AIDS Day

2010-11-30T23:59:00.003-07:00

In honor of World AIDS Day, December 1, 2010, I am so proud to share two new designs with you. A portion of the sales from these bracelets will benefit AIDS research and education organizations. You can view and purchase these designs in the gallery on my web site at www.maryfisher.com. I invite you to help make a difference in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Support Groups at Kanyama Clinic in Zambia

2010-11-25T17:43:00.000-07:00

Each time I visit Zambia, I visit one of the clinics to spend time with support group members. These groups were created to provide support for those who had been given an HIV positive diagnosis. Many times, the support groups are the only ones who know the status of some of the members. They are able to share their stories, talk about the stigma associated with their status, and develop a relationship with others in similar situations. The groups all come together to sing and dance and I love watching them share their joy at these gatherings.

A new project with Abataka Zambia

2010-11-21T17:59:00.000-07:00

The ladies of Abataka Zambia are trying out some new designs for bracelets. What to do for tension? Toes come in very handy.

Tribal Textiles

2010-11-17T17:54:00.000-07:00

Before leaving Zambia, we made a stop at Tribal Textiles. This is an outdoor textile painting business. The artists create designs using a wheat flour paste as a resist. Then, they paint the fabric. Later, after the paste has dried, it can be scraped off, leaving designs and lines of resist. It is then painted, dried and sewed into merchandise. You can visit the Tribal Textiles web site to see and order the finished products.Tribal Textiles, hand-painted fabrics, Zambia

Zambia tie dye and batik group

2010-11-15T17:08:00.000-07:00

What gorgeous fabrics come from this group of women! This is a small business for this community of HIV+ women and their hope is that it will continue to grow as they find more customers.

Zambia tie dye and batik group

2010-11-11T17:02:00.000-07:00

We watched the batik dying process in Zambia. I am so amazed at that beautiful fabric that they have created. Much of it will be sold as chitenges, the cloth that women wear wrapped around them as a skirt or used as a carrier for their babies. The colors are brilliant, although the measurement of the dye seems a bit arbitrary, a scoop of this, a bit of that. The stamps for the batik are crudely cut and the assortment is quite limited. Yet, the fabrics hang around the open area where the dying takes place and shine brilliantly in the sun.

Recent trip to Zambia

2010-11-08T16:57:00.000-07:00

In August 2010, I went to Zambia with a group of 16 friends. We visited a small enterprise in one of the compounds there. This group of women is making tie-dyed fabric and batik fabric. I am always amazed at what wonderful work they do with so little in the way of facilities and equipment.
Here they are preparing the white cotton for the process.

Chikumbuso and stories of HIV/AIDS

2010-11-03T17:40:00.000-07:00

By far, the most powerful part of our visit to Chikumbuso was the sharing of personal stories. These women are strong and fierce. Their lives are a daily struggle. I am touched by their souls, their sincerity, their thoughtfulness, and their willingness to share their heartache.

Eating nshima in Zambia

2010-10-31T17:39:00.000-07:00

Ida helps some of our group with the rolling of nshima to use as a spoon or scoop.

Lunch at Chikumbuso

2010-10-27T17:36:00.000-07:00

The grandmothers and single moms at Chikumbsuo prepared a feast for our visitors. Traditional food, nshima in the big plastic container on the front of the table, is made from maize. It is the staple in Zambia. It is served with greens ( mixed types- pumpkin greens, ground nuts, rape, etc) which is called relish. Chicken is also served if families can afford it. Nshima also doubles as silverware. There are no utensils. Some of the Americans are getting educated on how and what to eat by Ida and our hosts at Chikumbuso.

Chikumbuso in Zambia

2010-10-25T17:33:00.000-07:00

We visited Chikumbuso, a project started by my dear friend, Linda Wilkinson. This is an incredible place where hundreds of orphans are fed and educated each day. We took jump ropes, toys, and books with us. It was so rewarding to see the children embrace each gift with such thankfulness.

Abataka Zambia

2010-10-22T17:27:00.000-07:00

Dorothy is holding a small beaded pin with the AIDS ribbon on it. I am so proud of the women for what they have learned to do with beads.

The table is full of beautiful, brightly colored beaded bracelets, necklaces and earrings.

Abataka Women

2010-10-19T17:23:00.000-07:00

The table at the Arcades Market is full of beautiful items from jewelry to hand made clothing items to bags crocheted from plastic bags. Our American visitors found plenty to buy. The first few sales of each day go to cover the cost of the booth. On slow days, this might be all the women make. But they have been faithful and optimistic and return each weekend. They are beginning to develop a following and have even begun to do some commission work.

Abataka Artisans

2010-10-17T17:20:00.000-07:00

The women are so proud of their organization and wear their shirts to show their unity. Most of the women in the Abataka Artisans group make jewelry from local Zambian beads to sell at this Arcades Market. They have used the designs which I taught them originally. Many of them have even created adaptations of these designs to increase the styles available. They struggle with the logistics of this market. Carrying the bags of stock to the market each weekend is a struggle. If they have no money for transport, they walk long distances with the heavy load. Careful record keeping insures that each woman gets paid what is due to her.

Abataka Women Artisans Association of Zambia

2010-10-13T17:16:00.000-07:00

The women that I have been working with in Zambia for more than four years have now formed their own business- the Abataka Women Artisans Association of Zambia (AZ). While visiting Zambia in August, I took my friends to see the women at work in their booth at the Arcades Market. Dorothy and Estellah, pictured in the center, have been the bookkeepers for this sales location. They carefully record each sale, making sure that each woman from the group of 30 will be paid for her sales.

Zambia and the First Lady

2010-10-10T17:12:00.002-07:00

While visiting Zambia in August, we had the pleasure of meeting with the First Lady, Thandiwe Banda. She is a lovely lady and we were so glad to have had the honor to meet with her. This is Ida, my dear friend who has been the driving force behind the support groups for HIV positive Zambians. Her development of the support groups through CIDRZ (Center for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia) has been a life saver for many of the participants. Ida had never been to the State House. You can see how pleased she is to be here. Seated next to her is Dr. Jeff Stringer, CEO of CIDRZ. Jeff is a wonderful OB/GYN with a heart of gold.

Many more things to be painted

2010-09-30T13:50:00.001-07:00

Sedona provides such an incredible backdrop for me. There are things to paint in every direction. Watercolor, oil, pencil--- the options are endless and the subjects are endless.

More Art Bras

2010-09-27T14:46:00.002-07:00

My other bra is called "Heart of Africa" and has fabrics and beads reminiscent of the Africa that I love.

Art Bras

2010-09-22T14:38:00.002-07:00

I made this bra, called "My Mother's Heart" to submit to the art bra calendar. Artbra is an organization dedicated to raising funds for breast cancer research and treatment. The annual calendars feature an array of incredible bras made by caring women across the US. Submissions are still being accepted for the 2011 calendar. Visit the web site to see how you can get involved, or just to view the amazing bras which have already been received.

Fiber combinations

2010-09-19T14:09:00.001-07:00

Fibers, all kinds, combine to create depth, texture, interest. The base of these pieces is sometimes paper. Sometimes I will use layers of fibers and use my Embellisher machine to create a substantial base to build on. After embellishing by machine, I can go back and add hand sewing, beads, trims, and other items. I will incorporate this piece of knitting also.

Paper figures

2010-09-14T14:06:00.000-07:00

Working with over-beaten pulp allows me to actually paint with my handmade paper pulp. I love the colors, pigments and media that are available to me. Once again, the designs appear, although their final use is not always evident at the start.

Handmade Paper

2010-09-10T14:01:00.001-07:00

I have always enjoyed playing with the shapes and colors of paper. Although the placement is random, images and patterns emerge as a piece progresses toward completion.

Knitting squares

2010-09-03T15:07:00.000-07:00

I was trying to block all of my squares the same size so I cut a square of paper the size I wanted. I could just lay that on top of each knitted square and adjust my pins to make the finished square end up the correct measurements.

Fun knitting patterns

2010-08-30T15:03:00.000-07:00

The best part of knitting on these afghan strips is having a catalog of designs to which I can refer. Some of the blocks would make beautiful scarves all be themselves. These patterns came from Annie's in New York city.

Knitting strips

2010-08-25T14:59:00.000-07:00

I found these great blocking squares at Knit Picks. They fit into whatever shape you need for blocking. I used T pins to stretch and hold the knitting in the right shape. These are more strips for my afghan.
I just sprayed them lightly with water, left them for 24 hours and voila!

Knitting for fun

2010-08-23T14:50:00.000-07:00

I have been knitting strips which will be joined together to make an afghan. The strips contain different blocks with many interesting new stitches. After finishing six strips, I decided it was time to block them. What a huge difference it makes to see the strips flat and stretched to sizes that match. I am looking forward to a completed afghan, but in the interim, I am enjoying learning lots of new stitches and designs.

Ora Sorensen

2010-08-20T14:56:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of visiting with Ora Sorensen while in Florida recently. Her paintings are extraordinary. We played with watercolors on this flower.

My jewelry

2010-08-19T13:38:00.000-07:00

This is a beautiful necklace with Idaho opal and rose quartz. The shading in the opal is amazing.

My jewelry designs

2010-08-15T13:33:00.000-07:00

I have been working on developing some one-of-a-kind jewelry designs from gorgeous gemstones, unusual findings, and interesting embellishments. Some of these are now available at Goldenstein Gallery in Sedona. Sometimes I have enough gems to make a second piece, but more likely I will create something entirely different with the same stones later. I love the bold colors in the bamboo coral necklace.

Art portfolios

2010-08-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

I have been creating portfolios for my watercolors. I am using resin paper and creating collages from collected Japanese papers. I have been using Golden's Matte Medium to add and adhere the paper to theBASE portfolio.

More baskets from magazines

2010-08-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

This is a purse made from the rolled up magazines. I'm pretty sure that if you kept everything, you would find a use for it someday.

Baskets from magazines

2010-08-05T14:26:00.001-07:00

I found this basket on a trip recently. It is made from rolled up magazine pages. Isn't it fun?

More of my new oil painting area

2010-08-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

My new painting corner

2010-07-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

After completing the oil painting class, I decided I needed to create a space that would allow me to continue to work. So I did a bit of reorganizing. I love the process of creating a space that works best for each medium. In fact, I think that I love the process of organizing almost as much as the actual artwork that will occur in the space.

Mary Fisher "Whisper of AIDS" Speech 1992 Pt 1

2010-07-27T14:37:00.001-07:00

Mary's moving speech from the 1992 Republican National Convention. Go to http://www.maryfisher.com for more information.

Oil painting

2010-07-24T08:00:00.000-07:00

Yes, I'm painting and enjoying it.

Oil painting

2010-07-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

Class with Brian Davis.

Oil Painting

2010-07-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

I just completed an oil painting class at the Sedona Art Center with Brian Davis. I have been working with watercolors lately so painting with oils was a huge step for me. I have actually completed this rose since finishing the course.

Fabrics! Love them!

2010-07-12T12:45:00.000-07:00

I have always enjoyed the look and feel of fabric. We have an excellent store in Sedona called the Quilter's Store Sedona. I could spend hours in there just walking around looking at the fabrics. They are all organized by color and call out to me to create something.

I have an exhibit of my quilts there for the month of July. I hope that you can stop in to see not only my quilts, but my own new fabric line. And give yourself a treat and spend some time drooling over the gorgeous fabrics in the store.

Chikumbuso

2010-03-29T08:00:00.001-07:00

I have talked about the plastic bag crochet project at Chikumbuso. This is such an inspiring place to visit in Zambia. You can read more about it on their web site. It has grown by leaps and bounds since it's beginning in 2005. Many of the AIDS orphans and children from Ngombe compound are fed and educated there each day. Young mothers, widows, and grandmothers come together to work as a community to make sure these children have love and a place that strives to make their lives better.

www.chikumbuso.com

Sedona sunset

2010-03-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

The sunsets in Sedona are breathtaking. And a picture just doesn't ever do it justice. So, just look at this and multiply the beauty by one million times.

Hand made paper

2010-03-21T08:00:00.001-07:00

I came across this paper in Houston at the International Quilt Festival. I have no idea what I will do with it but it has such great texture. I might cut it up. I might use it in a journal. Maybe it will turn up in one of the smaller pieces I am working on called "Inspirations." I like to collect pieces of paper, threads, ephemera, beads- not knowing where or when I will use it. Sometimes I will have something for months before I find a use for it. Sometimes just looking at something for a few weeks will lead to a project. Other times, I can start a project and one day be drawn to an item I have had for months. I think it is important to maintain some kind of stash. My stash is extensive and I sometimes wonder how I did that. When you feel creative, you can draw on what you have in your stash.

Color and threads

2010-03-19T08:00:00.001-07:00

I have some wonderful small carts on wheels. I use metal split rings to keep similar colors together. Then with larger split rings, I can hang threads on the side of a cart to use wherever I need them in the studio. Having things on wheels makes life so much easier. There is an acrylic piece on top of each rack which gives me a solid work surface also.

My dogs

2010-03-17T08:00:00.001-07:00

I have two sons. I love them both dearly. But these are my babies. Daisy, Freckles, and Patches. No matter what size the dog bed, all three fit themselves into the space on hand. Freckles is a tender, sweet dog with quite a sense of wanderlust. If the door is open, she is gone. Patches is a barker and a follower so if Freckles goes, Patches will follow. Daisy- well, she is the queen, and she knows it. But they love to spend their days at the studio keeping the dog bed warm and resting up for something that never happens.

Bags hard at work

2010-03-13T08:00:00.001-07:00

Here is an assortment of plastic recycled bags made into beautiful tote bags. I have found many uses for these bags. They are strong, colorful, and come in many styles and shapes.

Finished bags

2010-03-10T13:42:00.001-07:00

This bag is so close to completion. It needs some handles. Aren't the colors great? And these bags are waterproof. I have even heard that some people have put them in the washing machine. They would be a perfect beach bag. They are strong and hold quite a lot of weight also.

Final bag details

2010-03-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

The bags need a strap sewn on. Don't these men look like they are enjoying learning to use the treadle sewing machines and helping with the project?

Recycled bags next step

2010-03-06T08:00:00.001-07:00

The preparation for making a bag takes quite a while, but it is also a social event. These women of Chikumbuso spend a day cutting, looping, chatting, and starting to crochet. I have learned to make these bags on my trips to Zambia. But after having almost made one or two of my own, I admire the speed and accuracy shown by each woman. I think they have access to much better colors than we can find here in the states.

Recycling plastic bags

2010-03-03T08:00:00.001-07:00

In Zambia, the women have a great way to recycle those plastic shopping bags. They make very colorful, durable tote bags (and other items) from the plastic. I am totally amazed at the speed with which they complete a bag.

They sit on the floor just like this; feet out in front- and cut the plastic bags into loops. Then they join all the loops into a long long long strip with which they crochet. The sizes, shapes, and colors that they use are exciting to see. From one original design, they have branched out into totes, small clutch purses, large carry-alls, and even cell phone carriers. This is a picture of the women of Chikumbuso starting out with the loops and getting ready to crochet.

Quilts on wheels

2010-02-28T08:00:00.001-07:00

In my studio, I like having things on wheels. These are quilts in progress. They hang on dowels on these rolling racks. I can have them near my Gammil Quilting machine if they need quilting. They can go closer to spools of thread when they need hand sewing. They can roll near another machine if they need labels made and applied. And they stay flat and unwrinkled so they are ready for sale.

Many talents

2010-02-27T08:00:00.001-07:00

I think that I am a woman of many talents. I draw, I weave, I knit, I bead, I make paper. What makes the world such a fun place is that we all have different talents. Sometimes we look at other people and admire their work. Especially when you go to a workshop. Have you ever noticed that, no matter who or where you are, when you look across the table to the student's work over there, it looks better than yours? I think that is a universal truth. So, I like to think that we all shine in our own areas. And it would be boring if we all were good at the same thing. So, look at this lady's talent. Do you know that the women in Africa can walk for many miles with a bag this large on their head? And they don't even have to use one hand to hold the bag up there. And it doesn't fall off. Maybe I should practice this, starting with a very small, light pillow.

Color!

2010-02-24T08:00:00.001-07:00

Once again, I find myself looking at color. In my studio, I have so much color in so many different forms. All of it provides me with inspiration. Take a moment. Look at your office, studio, living area. Even if these are not the colors you normally choose, just having a color next to another color allows you to see if you like the combination. Get a box of crayons or colored pencils and color like you did when you were a little one. You can even color outside the lines. But find combinations that you like. Shades that interest you. This exploration will take you down the path to something new.

Weaving

2010-02-22T08:00:00.002-07:00

We are blessed here in the US with beautiful, sleek and modern equipment for weaving. On a trip to Rwanda, I visited the weaving room at a craft center. This warping reel and multi-harness loom are hand made. However, the weaver was using a fine silk warp and a finer silk weft. That would be a challenge with even the best of equipment. The loom even had a fly shuttle adaptation. I was truly amazed at the quality of the weaving that came from this group of weavers.

South Africa

2010-02-19T08:00:00.001-07:00

South Africa has a color and feel all it's own. We taught these women to crochet beads. They already work with beads as you can see by their head bands. But they did not know how to crochet with them. It was eye candy just sitting back and looking at the bright blend of oranges, yellows, reds and blues. The traditional Swaziland colors just grab your attention.

Baskets from Rwanda

2010-02-18T08:00:00.002-07:00

These baskets are a traditional style from Rwanda. They are actually balanced on the heads of these women- no glue, no pins, no cheating. They did a lively dance and not one fell off their head. The baskets are made from sisal. The pattern in them is traditional to Rwanda. The President of the country even put this basket on the currency. It is called the Peace basket.

The weavers who create these baskets are survivors of the genocide. This art has been the key to their ability to mend after the horrors of the genocide. Each basket is made with a lid that fits perfectly.

African baskets

2010-02-15T08:00:00.001-07:00

When I travel, I am drawn to the native arts and crafts. I don't think I have been successful in leaving Africa without having at least one basket purchase. As I learn more about each province, I begin to see the sometimes subtle differences in the shapes, styles and composition of each basket design. These two baskets are typical of the baskets you would find in Ghana. I use them for carrying things between my home and the studio. I store yarn in them. I keep magazines by my bed for reading in them.

Birds in Africa

2010-02-13T08:00:00.001-07:00

In Africa, there is a bird called a weaver. This bird builds small rounded nests that hang like cones from the trees. In this palm tree in Lusaka, Zambia, they almost look like coconuts from a distance. The trees are full of nests.

The weaver itself is a bright yellow bird with a black head. The nests look like they might hold 2 birds, although some species of weaver birds build apartment style nests that can hold 20 or 30 birds.

Sedona

2010-02-10T08:00:00.002-07:00

Sedona is a beautiful place. In one of the canyons is a place called Shaman's Cave. You can look out over the mountains and canyons of Sedona from this vantage point. It is quite a hike to get there, but well worth the effort.

On the inside top of this cave the lichen grows in a yellowy chartreuse color. The lines and crevices in the red rock hold little bugs, moss, and twigs. The colors of nature provide incredible inspiration for me.

My studio

2010-01-23T08:55:00.000-07:00

Yes, I love color. And yes, I love organization. You can find these thread racks at your local craft or sewing stores. They stand on the table or can be hung on a wall which I have done as you can see. The sewing machines are close by. The threads are organized by color, but also by kind. I use cotton thread for quilting. I also keep metallic threads, nylon threads, silk and polyester.

My studio

2010-01-19T08:07:00.000-07:00

There are some painted metal cups on my shelf with pencils or scissors in them. I found these in South Africa. They are hand painted and remind me of the bright colors found there. The women dress in bright oranges, yellows, red, and black. If you need inspiration, surround yourself with color, as well as with mementos of travels or occasions from your past.

The photo of the girl is from a trip to Zambia. The faces of the people from Africa have become a large part of my work over the past years.

My studio- paper making

2010-01-14T08:52:00.000-07:00

Hand made paper is great fun for me and looks messy but isn't. I could not manage without the stainless steel sinks. The racks above the sink hold all my cleaning supplies, gloves, soaps, rags, and towels.

My studio

2010-01-10T08:16:00.001-07:00

You will find this shape in much of my work. I associate it with Africa and the women who are left to take care of the AIDS orphans. It shows up in quilts, paper, on fabric and in other forms, as you can see above. The shape has been embellished with yarns and applied to fabric.

Then those pieces move to "the wall." This wall is made of fiberboard and I can tack into it without damaging anything. There are always many pieces hanging here. Some are finished. Others are in a state of process. Some are pieces that I don't quite know where they will end up. Others have a specific purpose but the rest of the project has not been completed yet. There will be knitting, weaving, sewing, hand made paper, and other media. The fiberboard is great because it is the full height of the wall and 12 feet wide. I use it on the walls in the paper making side of the studio also.

My studio

2010-01-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

Color is such a great inspiration. My beginnings were as a weaver so I have always loved the feel, texture, look, and emotion found in a group of threads. I enjoy the process of putting these rings of color together. There are wools, cottons, boucles, novelty yarns, and ribbons. Some are hand dyed by me, some by professional yarn dyers. Some are knitting yarns, some are weaving yarns. And the wall of color makes me feel good.

Hand made Paper in my studio

2010-01-02T20:39:00.000-07:00

Handmade paper ----gives me the chance to sculpt with pulp. My paper making table has removable sections which allows me to make paper in various sizes. The table is on wheels, of course. In previous studios, I have had a mirror hung on the ceiling above the table, allowing me to view a large piece of work in progress.
These colors are so rich. I embed items as well as other Japanese papers into the pulp. When the paper is dry it can be hung on the wall or torn apart and used in other pieces.

My studio

2009-12-31T09:00:00.000-07:00

It should come as no surprise that I am organized. One of the projects I have worked on over the past several years is the Abataka Jewelry project. The women in Zambia make the most amazing jewelry. These women are all HIV+ and are very near and dear to my heart. They have given so much time and energy learning to create beautiful jewelry using my designs. You can view and purchase this jewelry on my web site (www.maryfisher.com).
When I am ready to work on new designs, I like to have the findings close at hand. I have taken a spice rack and recycled it into a jewelry center. The rack sits on a "lazy susan" in the center of my beading table. This provides easy access to anyone sitting at this large round table.

Hand made paper- My studio

2009-12-22T20:49:00.001-07:00

Once I complete a sheet of hand made paper.... I can start to embellish with threads or even more paper pulp. This one has fiber- it could be wool or silk and will always be something hand dyed. I can also paint on the paper. I have used over-beaten pulp which is used like paint but it isn't. It has pigment added and then is beaten longer in a machine to get the fibers shorter so it can be squirted from a plastic bottle with a tip on it.

My studio

2009-12-15T07:00:00.001-07:00

My studio is a place where I can go, feel creative, and hopefully have what I want to work with at hand. This is a new section which I have added recently. I have been playing with the creation of journals. As you can see, I have I bit of everything at hand.

I keep all shapes, weights, sizes and colors of threads, each sorted on large rings. That way, when I need something, I can just grab a ring, yank out my color, and keep working.

Paints, glues, dyes, and brushes are easily accessible in the rack to the left of my work desk. And, everything is on wheels. Makes rearranging a breeze.

My Studio

2009-12-14T14:54:00.000-07:00

Can one be TOO organized? I don't think so. Time is such a valuable commodity. When I am ready to work, I want to have what I need at hand. But, I also want to be able to find it easily.

Lumiere paints are a favorite of mine. As you can see, I keep some small bottles. These are great when I take a workshop and want to take something along. The larger bottles are good for studio use. Golden acrylics, matte medium, and pastes are another favorite. I keep them in several sizes also. I took some workshops at Art Unraveled this year and the smaller size is perfect for traveling.

Paper pulp creations

2009-11-17T07:20:00.000-07:00

I use paper pulp to "draw" with which allows me freedom to create actual figures. I love the process of layering, incorporating found objects, and then pulp painting over the whole piece.

I have several large tables in my studio where I can lay pieces out, think, move them around, and then decide what the final composition will be.

Judith Baker Montano

2009-11-09T10:14:00.002-07:00

This is an incredibly beautiful and informative book by Judith Baker Montano. I was lucky enough to see a copy of it while in Houston at the International Quilt Festival in Houston last month. It covers many subjects including crazy quilting (done as only Judith can), watercolor painting, dyeing fabrics and how to organize yourself and get started. There is a stitch guide for embroidery and silk ribbon, as well as a source guide. This would make a wonderful gift for a friend who enjoys crazy quilting, or any kind of hand embroidery. It is a gorgeous book with lovely color photographs throughout. Judith asked me to write the forward, which I was most happy to do.

The book is 265 pages, spiral bound, and sells for $35.95. It would make a lovely coffee table book but provides all the knowledge and instruction to make your project look as lovely as those done by Judith. I have admired and loved Judith's work and I know you will too, after looking through this book. You can order through Judith's web site (www.judithbakermontano.com)

International Quilt Festival

2009-10-26T09:23:00.001-07:00

Tons of fun! Taking classes at Houston International Quilt Festival gave me the chance to play on a sewing machine, create, stitch, knit, and relax. Here is the start of a fiber fusion journal cover in one of my classes.

Houston International Quilt Festival

2009-10-24T08:01:00.001-07:00

From October 10-18, 2009, I was fortunate to have an exhibit of my quilts at the International Quilt Festival in Houston. The booth was spacious and held 18 of my most recent quilts in an exhibit titled "Faces from my Heart."

This quilt is "She's a Child Raising Children."

The Motivation Show- Chicago

2009-10-22T08:08:00.002-07:00

The Abataka Collection was represented at the Motivation Show in Chicago in October 2009. The jewelry line is now part of Helping Hand Rewards, a business that deals with socially responsible enterprises. The event was well attended and much interest in the line was generated.

International Quilt Festival and Ambassador Zambi

2009-10-17T16:19:00.000-07:00

One of the most exciting parts of my exhibit "Faces from my Heart" was Ambassador Zambi. The giant elephant was a generous loan from Hasbro toys. Their Zambi elephant, now available at Hasbro.com will benefit AIDS orphans in Africa. Children and adults loved Ambassador Zambi, especially after learning that touching the end of his trunk makes him kiss.

African dinner

2009-10-07T10:57:00.001-07:00

My very good friend, Idah, was visiting from Zambia. We cooked an African dinner and shared with friends.

We made nshima with her wonderful supervision. Nshima is a staple in Zambia. It resembles very thick grits and is made from maize. It requires stirring and stirring, and then more stirring. Way more work than most of us put into a meal!

Small Handmade Paper pieces

2009-10-03T11:00:00.003-07:00

These are small handmade paper pieces with knitting embedded in them. I challenge myself to combine media. Sometimes it works and sometimes not. These particular pieces work for me and so I am finishing them with ribbon or fiber binding on the edges.

Pulp Painting

2009-09-28T07:06:00.000-07:00

These are close-ups of my handmade paper when I'm pulp painting. These small pieces will become figures or pages in a book. It's so much fun to experiment with colors as they move together and dry.

Figures waiting....

2009-09-25T13:00:00.001-07:00

Sometimes I just can't settle into one area of art. My figures are waiting to become part of a quilt. Until they find their spot, I experiment with journals, creating pages and books with colors and textures that I love.

Sometimes my figures are more dense, solid with a base of twigs, bamboo, or sticks. Other times, they flow lightly onto fleece. They wait for a quilt that calls out to them.

Figures

2009-09-21T10:00:00.001-07:00

The human figure has often been a challenging subject for me. I have been experimenting with pulp painting figurative forms and I am so pleased with the result. I love the fluidity of the overbeaten pulp fiber and the linear quality of the forms. The drawings have a very delicate and airy quality. I would love to see a group of them floating in an open space.

Welcome

2009-09-15T11:15:00.001-07:00

Welcome to my studio! This is a place where I will share my work in progress and things that inspire me. I have to admit I have avoided all of this new technology: facebook, twitter, blogging, because I was not sure I could do it! Encouraged by my children to take another step forward, to keep up with the ever changing world, I am here and they have graciously offered to help me. I look forward to your next visit!

Mary and Daisy