First Design – Mercy Triumphs

I uploaded my first fabric design to make a 16” pillow and immediately ordered a fat quarter in a flurry of excitement, hoping the design graphics and colors would be correct so I could make an envelope pillow cover. But I am getting ahead of myself.

I prayed for my art's new focus to be functional. Art, hung on a wall, functions as an interior design element. However, I wanted to consider other areas of use, such as pillows, drapes, placemats, table runners, napkins, aprons, and tea towels. Also, I have some antique furniture in which I would like to incorporate wallpaper on the inside wood.

Having an encompassing theme was essential. I considered the bombarded by advertisements, violence, anger, hostility, and indifference in people's lives. Having our homes filled with positive words and images gives an uplifting, healthy perspective. I want my art to have words that are positive, uplifting, full of encouragement, faith, hope, love, and kindness. Another positive focus that came to mind was happy memories of family and friends: family recipes on tea towels or places for family gatherings.

So, my theme is to use the temporal, physical things in this life, to maintain an eternal perspective and to encourage others. My scripture theme is this quote from Hebrews 3:13. “But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.”

My first design includes an encouragement to forgive. Easter was only a few weeks ago. It is the remembrance and celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, of the day mercy triumphed over judgment.