Wednesday, October 14, 2015

Friendship woven together with a thread

Look what I received in the mail today. Fourteen, one-yard cuts of batiks from Ghana. These fabrics are from my very dear friend, Suchinta, who purchased them for me while in the African country. Batiks are by far my favorite fabric. I love the flow of color, and the idea that the designs are hand-crafted, with colors and symbols that have regional and ethnic significance. I had told Suchinta to send me some batiks, if she could find the time. But I wasn't expecting this truly wonderful gift that also came with a new connection to a place far away. I am overwhelmed. This box of goodies has given me "quilter's block" (similar to writer's block). I am creatively stuck. What can I make that would best honor the women behind these creations and show off the designs? I'm calling on my friends to help me out with ideas. Below is a "selfie" of Suchinta with Esther, the creative force behind the fabrics.
Suchinta's comments on seeking out the fabrics:
"I have been walking around looking for Esther and her gorgeous batiks for days. She designs and has 4 women create beautiful cotton fabrics combining batik and tie dye. Today I found her on my 3rd attempt, and made a new friend. Our meeting turned out to be more about sharing self-healing stories than about batiks."
Learn more about Esther: http://batiksforlife.com/the-art-of-batik-and-more-feel-goodness/