Caro Higgs – Series #2 – Motifs
As I worked on the original I began to wonder about the possibility of adding more transparency. I love the idea of layers and what can be revealed/concealed. I more or less kept the original shape of the motif but then played around with the background. I had started out with small circles and this time I have added a second block by drawing up the circle motif larger and over printing it on the original, the colours are fairly similar, grunge reflecting the dust and dirt of India. I then outline quilted the larger circles before applying the motif in a semi-transparent gauze which frays horribly! In an attempt to draw out the colour of the larger circles I used a paint/glue mix on the edges to calm the fraying. Two small mirrors have been added in the top corners to represent reflection.
I am happy that there is some transparency and I want to take the shapes further in my next piece and play with the juxtaposition of the different shapes.
The back ground is the same eco-dyed fabric as the original and the blocks are lino cuts which I printed with fabric paints. The gauze is synthetic. Hand quilted background and machine appliquéd main motif.
Close up View:
Detail of the base of the piece showing the quilting of the larger ‘print’.
Detail of a top corner showing the mirror and problems with fraying!
Quilt in Series- Motifs
Quilt 1 Quilt 2
FIFTEEN BY FIFTEEN 
It is really challenging to keep the same shape and more or less the same colours … but we can see the evolution already and I really like the unity between your different pièces.
Caro I would love to see these in reality to appreciate the changes in the design and I do agree with Chantal you have been able to keep the continuity of colour and shape. Bravo
I found that in order to appreciate your movement into transparency, and to compare the two pieces, I had to open the post of your first of the series in a separate window and put them side by side. (I am wondering if the two photos at the bottom aren’t exactly the same…but it could be my eyes!) Your machine and hand-quilting skills are wonderful; they truly compliment the precise form of the motif!
Interesting to see the subtle differences, the same but not quite. I like the fact that you kept the same background fabric.
I like the way that you have continued with a similar shape but have made such subtle changes. Your background is very interesting and beautifully stitched. I look forward to seeing how you take this evolution further in your next piece.
Very nice to look at the subtle changes in the same design. Love your layers and the transparency. Looking forward to your next piece.
I really like this. The basic motif is lovely and your changes are so subtle yet give a different feel to the design. The development from the original is intriguing and I look forward to the next piece.
To me it looks like you created a puzzle: find the differences. Lovely how you changed the details.
Nice second piece. I can see how the cutouts give your piece a subtle, lighter, more transparent feel while staying with the original design concept.