“If the doors of perception were cleansed every thing would appear to man as it is, Infinite. For man has closed himself up, till he sees all things thro’ narrow chinks of his cavern.”
― William Blake, The Marriage of Heaven and Hell
This piece started with a beautiful hand dyed fabric made by a friend of mine. At first glimpse, you might think that it’s a midnight blue – then the diversity of colors and shades becomes gradually apparent. As with so many pieces that I come by, I just can’t bring myself to cut them up into little pieces, but need to find a way to be able to see and enjoy the entirety of the piece.
The applique overlaying the hand dyed piece is once again, a variation on the Celtic Waldalgesheim pattern dated between 500-350 BC. It is reversed appliqued. As the design came to life, as I was working on it, it also reminded me of the ancient Welsh story of Arianrhod – Goddess of the Silver Wheel. It was said that Arionrhod was able to shape shift into a large owl, and through the great eyes, was able to see into the darkness of human subconsciousness and the soul. This owl is winking suspiciously!
The piece is 28 x 42 inches. It is hand appliqued and hand quilted.
The last two photos are to get a closer look at the depth in the underneath fabric.
quiltingquandary 
You are right, that fabric is gorgeous! I can see why you wouldn’t want to cut it up I. Small pieces. You appliqué is also a beautiful sight. Great job!