Elsy Menko – Time #4
Les vieux amants
I was inspired by the beautiful love song “les vieux amants” (the old lovers) by Jacques Brel, one of my favorite singers/song writers. It is a poetic masterpiece about enduring a long-term relationship with all its ups and downs. The song reflects on twenty years of “mad love”. The lyrics detail the passage of time, emphasizing the stormy nature of the relationship as well as a deep, enduring affection and tenderness.
Lyrics by Jacques Brel, music co-composed by Jacques Brel and Gerard Jouannest, Brel’s pianist and one of his closest music collaborators.
The problem with the song is once hummed, very difficult to get out of your head!
The picture of this loving old couple was found on the internet, rights purchased.
Materials and technique: Commercial cotton fabrics, shirt fabric (my husband’s), tule, cut up chiffon shawl (mine), free motion embroidery and some hand stitching.
FIFTEEN BY FIFTEEN 
I love the inspiration you got from the romantic poem. Beautiful portrait work. I really like French chansons. Jacques Brel is wonderful.
It is a beautiful quilt where you really managed to reflect on feelings this couple has for each other. Love the background fabric that works well for your story.
Beautiful and moving portraits ! Ilike the “toile de jouy” in the background, it reminds me of the wall paper I had in my bedroom when I was a child.
Wow, what a beautiful piece!
As I write this, I’m listening to the song that inspired you. Beautiful! You’ve captured the mood of the song very well. Your piece is very moving and absolutely wonderfully executed.
This is a great interpretation of the song and the toile de joie is a great back drop. Lovely work.
Very creative double portraiture great choice of fabric and design. Bravo
Wow, what a deeply moving and well executed piece. Your inspiration shines through every stitch, capturing the essence of Brel’s music on fabric, Bravo.
What a beautiful portrait to illustrate a beautiful concept. You have really captured a moment in time. The fabrics you have chosen are great. Well done