Kaylene Maalste – Nature #3
On the Beach
Inspiration – As I walk along the beaches in my area I am always photographing what has been washed up by the waves – seaweed, shells, bits of wood and bones. So these are the inspiration in this third quilt on nature.
Materials and Technique. The background for the quilt is unbleached calico that was hand quilted before attaching the elements of seaweed, shells, wood and bones. The seaweed material were either strips of sari ribbon, embroidery thread or ribbon. Threads were twisted into cords to represent tangled seaweed. I buttonholed a 3d pieces for the base of the kelp. Hand-dyed felt was used for flat seaweed pieces that were appliqued to the background. Shells were caught down with embroidery thread. I also added some strands of an old sea worn rope.
Closeup
FIFTEEN BY FIFTEEN 
Not an easy subject but you have really captured the natural detritus that occurs on the beach. The use of differing textures is very effective, well done!
It reminds me of our walks on the long, wild beaches in the Camargue. Gathering shells and smooth driftwood. Not easy to make, but you did it very well. It looks like a material painting. Bravo!
I really like the quilting, which is reminiscent of the textures created by water on sand and really enhances the atmosphere of this piece. The addition of the shells is very effective!
Beautiful work, I love the way you quilted the background, like sand along the water. Fun textures of the sea shells and sea plants. Bravo!
Your work consists of so many details and you gave each one your full attention. very interesting.
An interesting collection of seaside fragments that you have given a fresh life in your quilt. Great stitching and a very effective depiction
A great representation of the tideline. Lots of detail to look at and all well constructed.
So much to see, so much to examine. I love the variety of shapes and colors and their placement.
Wonderful idea. I think being a photographer you WATCH the world around you with more attention than others, and you SEE what many of us don’t Well done!
Such a nice idea. So many interesting items to look at, so many details in this quilt. Great texture and a very fitting background. Well done.
Such an abundance of items left by the tide on the shore line. You managed to “translate” them all in a different and creative way on your quilt.Lots to look at and admire. The quilting complements it.
I love it how you quilted the background first, like real sand. You used a lot of different materials: great!
What a great way to produce the perfect background texture for your colorful and creatively unique found treasures. Lovely!