A Workshop with Julia Mitchell
Julia Mitchell speaking about ways of creating movement in tapestry
I have been enamored with the tapestries of Julia Mitchell from the moment I first laid eyes on them. They evoke a sense of calm that draws me in. A number of years ago, I did a blog post on her use of borders. I never dreamed I might actually get to meet her one day- much less take a workshop from her!
The Tucson Handweavers and Spinning Guild has several study groups, one of which is a very active Tapestry Study Group. For this year, they invited Julia to come to do a 3-day tapestry workshop. I was just lucky that one of the members knew of my awe of her work and let me know there were a few spaces that opened up to non-members.
This was not a workshop focused on any particular technique, but rather more of a three day discussion of the possibilities in tapestry design. She began that first morning with the acknowledgement that we were all intermediate to advanced in our abilities and accomplishments and she felt in the company of peers. (What a sweet thing to say…!)
Julia had a refreshing approach to teaching; one that involved careful “listening” - note taking - and an ‘ask me anything’ openness. Some topics were initially suggested… backgrounds, borders, translucency… and the list began to grow from there. And she did not answer with short answers. She went into great depth at times. I think on day three she actually talked the majority of the day. Making sure no question went unanswered!
In between discussions, we all worked on our own designs as Julia made the usual rounds, continuing to answer questions both individually and to the group, giving us feedback as needed.
Just a small portion of the yarns for sharing
As you can see above, she brought along a small portfolio of her work along with yarns we were free to use.
in addition, Lyn, one of the participants, brought in a huge bag full of Habu yarns on day 2 which some of us ( well, ok , me) openly lusted over. An unexpected treat. Two of my favorites above.
Below… the looms of all the participants. It was such a great group! Every design was intriguing; wish I could share more but this gives a glance.
The guild was so welcoming to us outsiders (Bonnie, Myla, and myself) and the space was a well-lit room perfect for all our needs! I should mention it was hosted in the Tiny Time Machine Museum of Miniatures, a rare side treat! Those Tucson folks are very fortunate to be a part of such an accomplished and active guild!
And Vicki France, our very capable workshop leader! We had her to thank for everything from working closely with Julia over the past year to easy and flexible lunches, hot tea and coffee as we needed and who knows what else!
Julia lives on Martha’s Vineyard and has most of her life, living in a family home that goes back generations. I was surprised to learn she was introduced to tapestry at an earlier age than most of us: in high school by a teacher trained in the Bauhaus tradition, no less!
I did a quick search before writing this and stumbled onto these articles from local publications you might enjoy reading, too. I did!
Dream Weaver Art Tapestry Requires Patience and a Strong Back