Native Kimono

Description

This kimono inspired wall hanging is truly woven art. It's function is beauty, and as a reflection of the plants and animals that helped bring this piece into form.
The full story and detailed pictures can be seen at.

http://ecologicalartist.wordpress.com/

The warp and weft were dyed in California coastal natives of coyote brush, coastal sagebrush, toyon, coffeeberry, and black walnut. The weft is made from the fleeces of sheep that live inside the barn where these photos were taken. The wool is organic.

The warp is 100% hemp. It was the only material that I imported for the creation of the piece.

Many of the yarns were dyed by local school children, who spent two afternoons learning about native plants, and learned to make natural dyes from the leaves and stems.

The buttons I made, are from arroyo willow branches. The braid holding them together is a samurai pattern. Once used to hold armor together. These braids are strong.

The piece took over a year to complete.
Coordinating with the plants natural cycles, to harvest appropriately, and achieve the right colors took some time and the creation of many new recipes.

This piece is color and light fast.

Measurements= from sleeve to sleeve (the widest part) is 37"
from top to bottom including fringe is 54"
the width of the narrower lengths is 9.5"

This is an inspired 'kimono', it is has no back. The sleeves are the only aspect of the design with a back. The front is as shown, two hanging panels.

If you are looking for a completely original, green, and consciously-made piece of art for your home, this piece is it!

Added on Oct 03, 2009