Creative Strategy

When I start working on a textile or garment, or a new collection-- I often initially think of somehow combining "opposites" in the work. Dark/light, positive/negative, cool/warm, etc. Would this more structured blouse/jacket/ skirt look good with a loose, painterly print? Would this pristine piece of cotton look more interesting if I dyed it to look like it was dirty or stained? Is this a lighthearted collection in feel, or something more melancholy? Can I somehow make something fun and introspective? When I am stuck creatively, asking these questions helps get me started working.

Play

I did not plan or expect to take these pictures today. As I was dyeing fabric, in my dye studio, which is my back yard, I was thinking about photography, and inspiration, (recent photographs by Kate, and Lauren, and Claire). 

I love being able to work outside year 'round, and will take care of the garden while I wait for fabric to dry. 

As I was waiting for a textile to dry today, I picked a lime blossom, a banana leaf, and a blood orange that had cracked and had fallen to the ground, and played around, documenting the results.

Megan McIsaac + ERMIE for Synonym Journal #3

All photographs by Megan McIsaac, Model: Amelia Rose Barlow. Clothing ERMIE. Jewelry by wenvrsleep, other accessories: model's own.  

 Photographer Megan McIsaac and I collaborated on a short photo editorial for submission to Synonym Journal, #3, Cliffhanger. 

One of the photographs from this series, was chosen for the centerfold! Take a look here, and to purchase the Journal- it's full of wonderful contributors such as Claire Cottrell, & Shin Okuda.

The images above, while not making it into the Journal itself, are some of my alternative favorite captures from the shoot. Enjoy. 

Many thanks: Megan, Amelia, Amelia Giller and Leigh Patterson!

   

P.K.

Trying to take photos of subjects, settings, that I don't normally shoot: here are a few images of my studio mate's daughter at the park...

2013

 Jan.

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 May

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 Aug.

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Oct.

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Dec.

Studio Visit With Madeleine Dodge

Madeleine is one of the most inspiring people I know. She is thoughtful, kind, intelligent, and has raised three wonderful boys (one of which to whom I am fortunate to be married). She radiates beauty and light.

 Madeleine is also a life-long practicing artist, and is devoted to her work as a creator. When we were in Denver for Christmas, I asked to go to her studio. It was a visit that was very much overdue. 

 There are few things I love more than being able to get a glimpse into the creative process of others, and this studio visit was especially meaningful and exciting for me. I hope you enjoy these images of our time together.

As we close 2013, and enter the New Year, I wish you many fulfilling, creative, moments in 2014. 

(Thank you Madeleine).

xx

-JPD

After reading the print article on Mark Borthwick in the Spring '13 issue of Inventory Magazine , I've been inspired to take more photographs on my "real" camera again, and to utilize this space more.

Maybe even take film photographs... who knows (that's half the fun!)? 

All photographs above taken by me, in December, 2013.