Myrrh Tree

This large fabric is a one of a kind original piece. It has been stretched on a frame and could be taken off the frame, sent by post in a roll and re-framed or re-stretched.  The dimensions are 150cm by 100cm.
 
I have used stitched shibori technique with a natural pomegranate skin and iron mordant dye, and 100 percent cotton fabric which gives this truly spectacular black and grey colour. In stitched shibori one stitches a pattern onto the fabric and pulls the threads through the material until there is a bunch of tight folds. This creates the resist to the dye, leaving the pattern when the threads are removed and the fabric ironed flat.
 
There are many subtle shifts in texture and colour even though the whole piece is saturated in dark grey, and for me this affect is part of the intention behind the work. 
 
It represents the powerful healing properties of plants and trees, and in this case the Melancholic Quadrant - the section of 'Cold, Dry'' in the Greek spectrum of medicinal knowledge. The Melancholic Quadrant represents black bile, Autumn, old age and the element of earth. It is mostly prescribing the use of healing plants used for problems with the spleen, (or in Ayurvedic medicine would be associated with excessive Vata). I depict the Myrrh tree as this is one of the plants known to be useful in these areas.
 
The overall affect is a powerful reminder of the affects of colour on our psyche, and I think this piece will find a very special home! In the process of fixing the dye this very large piece of fabric must be added to a large pot of simmering water, and let rest for some days to absorb this brilliant colour from the pomegranate skins and iron mordant. The random outcome is part of the charm and thrill of this method.
 
It is also possible to commission a similar work , with specific dimensions and or subject matter in a similar colour.