I’m so excited to be in this year’s Beyond The Fringe. Thebes took the picture below. I was working on my moons for the 2009 show.

What drives you to create?
I have a strong desire to create that cannot be ignored.

Why did you choose fiber as your medium?
I love to touch art. As a girl I would have to hold my hands behind my back to prevent myself from touching the art on the museum’s walls! I wanted to run my fingers over the brushstrokes so badly. (I still do.) I enjoy fiber art because I get to touch and caress it from start to finish. The sense of touch is important to me when I’m making a piece.

What kind of materials do you incorporate into your art? Where do you find them?
I use yarn, wool fleece, felt, fabric, embroidery thread and ribbons mostly. I’ve experimented with my pieces this year and have added touches of metal and bone into them.

Often I spin the yarn I use in a piece so I get exactly what I’m envisioning. I buy material online and locally. I particularly like recycling materials.

How much time do you typically invest in a piece?
From first visualization to finished art takes between six months to a year.

What is your process to turn your artistic vision into the finished piece?
I visualize the piece for awhile. Then I make sketches and to do lists. Preparing the felt canvas comes next, then I felt fleece onto it. Depending on the artwork I’ll then spin up yarn or knit with yarn already made. I assemble the various pieces onto the canvas by needle felting them or hand sewing. If needed I embroider details. The non-fiber details are attached last.

What is the special meaning or message behind your work?
I want to bring more magic into the world. As a Pagan I find creating my art to be a spiritual experience. I want to share some of the mysticism I experience with the viewer.

Some artists create their art for therapy purposes. Does that apply to you?
Yes. I feel creating art is a therapeutic process. It’s a stress reliever and clears the mind. Art is good for the soul!

However, this year I made a piece to specifically deal with my relationship with my mother. Creating the art was a very therapeutic and healing experience.

What artists do you admire most?
Edward Abbey, anonymous street art, Salvador Dali, Ron English, Enya, Max Ernst, Nancy Farmer, Mother Nature, Chuck Palahniuk, Shag, Anne Tainter

Where do you find inspiration?
Going for hikes in the forest, nature, experiencing art, dreams, fiber, snippets of conversation…everywhere!

Do you have any upcoming projects or art shows this year?
Plans are in the works. See my blog for art updates.

How can people contact you?
twilly23 @ gmail . com