Revision of Jennifer McBrien's portfolio from Wed, 01/17/2024 - 20:04

Peeling off the Walls

This series draws inspiration from the concept of torn wallpaper, symbolizing the act of peeling away layers to reveal glimpses of historical life. Throughout the fabric's narrative, a red or blue thread is intricately woven, symbolizing connection, blindfolding, guidance, and the complexities of interpersonal relationships. It wraps around arms and fingers, pushing and pulling, telling a story of both connection and isolation—a continual yearning for communication despite differing perspectives.

The hybrid bird women, crafted through freehand machine stitching on organza, serve as guardians, prognosticators, and soothsayers. Strategically hand-sewn onto specific areas of the composition, they contribute to the narrative of the artwork.

Photos by Joseph Hyde

Tangled Up in Blue

Toile decor remnants are appliqued and stitched onto canvas, with free-motion embroidered figures on organza that are hand stitched onto fabrics to float or appliqued to stay flat; hand embroidered blue thread and tassels.

56" W x 66"H x 2”D

Photo by Joseph Hyde

First exhibited as part of "Unraveling Narratives: A Dialogue in Toile”, Gallery B, Bethesda, MD. Currently part of the "Reverie & Alchemy " at Center for the Arts Gallery. Towson University, Towson, MD. until April 19, 2025.

Available for Purchase

contact artist at [email protected]
Faraway So Close

Faraway, So Close

Freehand machine embroidery on organza for hybrid bird women with hand embroidery on toile remnants and felt pieced together and appliquéd onto canvas. Stretched on 54" X 54" heavy-duty stretcher strips. Completed 2024

The title alludes to Wim Wenders' film of the same name, exploring the polarities within a newly unified Berlin and reflecting on the contrasting aspects of contemporary life.

The final piece is stretched on a 54" x 54" frame, with parts extending about 18" below and 2" off the sides, creating a visually striking and immersive composition

First exhibited as part of Bromo Arts Tower in Baltimore, part of the show Unraveling Threads” 'Emerge Baltimore - This is Baltimore Too’, also part of "Unraveling Narratives: A Dialogue in Toile,” Gallery B, Bethesda, MD. Currently part of the "Reverie & Alchemy " at Center for the Arts Gallery. Towson University, Towson, MD. until April 19, 2025.

Photography by Joseph Hyde

Available for Purchase

contact Jennifer at [email protected]
detail , "Tangled up in Blue"

Detail of freemotion embroidery on organza that is layered over toile decor fabric.
"Tangled up in Blue" , detail

Detail of freemotion embroidery on organza that is layered over toile decor fabric.
detail, "Tangled up in Blue"

Detail of organza overlay with freemotion embroidery, blue thread and tassle.
Detail: Faraway so Close

Detail of layering effect of organza and hand embroidery

Photography by Joseph Hyde
Faraway So Close, detail

Detail of layering effect of organza and hand embroidery

Photography by Joseph Hyde
Faraway So Close, detail
Faraway So Close, detail

Detail of layering effect of organza and hand embroidery

Photography by Joseph Hyde
Faraway So Close, work in progress

Once the piece was stretched on the stretchers strips, I was able to lay the pipe on my work table to add hand embroidered details.

Hanging them Out to Dry , 2019-present

“Hanging Them Out to Dry, a visceral commentary on the plight of endangered birds. Hung on a clothesline, embroidered vintage napkins evoke a sense of vulnerability, emphasizing the urgent need for conservation efforts to safeguard threatened species from extinction.”- The Academy Art Museum

This piece is an ongoing piece that was installed and documented throughout numerous areas of the Château De Bouthonvillers in Dangeau, France, during my artist residency (Atelier Artist in Residency Program) in October 2023. I also had the opportunity to collaborate with composer Adina Forsberg of Stockholm, Sweden. This first video of my project is the result of this project. It has since been part of the “Subversive Threads” exhibit, first installed at the Westboro Gallery in Augusta, Georgia before its installation at the Academy Art Museum where it currently hangs until March 30, 2025.

"Hanging Them Out to Dry" film

Jennifer McBrien started her hand-embroidered bird project in 2019 to honor the diminishing bird population occurring due to Climate Warming. Her birds are embroidered on vintage linens that she received from people's collections of family heirlooms. Adena Forsberg's composition of Arvegods (Heritage) is a contemporary interpretation of two pieces of folk music, both from Norrbottenn. It's a place County in Swedewhere communities grow smaller, where stores close, and where traditions and history get lost with each generation. In Arvegods, the music mirrors the melancholy and sadness that, no matter the metaphors, are so innately human. Who will mourn our lost heritage if no one knows what is lost? McBrien and Forsberg met in October 2023 during a three-week Atelier Artist Residency at the Chateau Bouthonvilliers, a castle not far from Chartres, France. The artists found a partnership in marrying their work together.
Installation in front yard of Installation at Chateau Bouthonvillier
Installation at Chateau Bouthonvilliers Gates
IMG_0868.jpeg

Hand Embroidered birds on vintage linen napkins, Installed at the Chapel at Château De Bouthonvillers, Dangeau, France. October 26, 2023. Part of the Atelier Artist in Residency Program.
Westobou Gallery Installation

Westobou Gallery Installation, Augusta, Georgia. Part of the Subversive Thread show, Summer 2024
Belted Kingfisher

Belted Kingfisher , hand embroidered on vintage linen
Hanging them out to Dry, Wood Duck .jpg

Hand embroidery on vintage linen napkin
"Hanging them out to Dry" Barn Owl , 2019

Hand Embroidered Barn Owl on vintage linen napkin

The Guardians

In these works, my bird women, women, and birds engage with scenes depicted in decor toile fabrics. The toile scenes serve as a symbolic reference to humanity's progressive encroachment on natural and cultural landscapes and the resulting consequences of exploiting Earth's resources. This series is prompting my bird warriors to intervene, educate, and safeguard the future.

Ms. Spoonbill Goes to Battle

"Ms. Spoonbill Goes to Battle", 2023. Ms. Spoonbill stands at watch with her walking stick while Greater Prairie Chicken woman watches from the tree. They are partnered up by a Dark eyed vireo and red headed woodpecker. Both bird women are freehand machine stitched on cotton fabrics with hand-embroidered heads. Both birds are hand embroidered on cotton. All figures and birds are appliquéd and reinforced stitched onto a vintage curtain panel, stretched on a vintage 18" embroidery hoop.

18" x 18" x 1"

Exhibited in “Harford 100-Mile Biennial Exhibition”, juried group show, Chesapeake Gallery, Belair, MD in 2023 and "Unraveling Narratives: A Dialogue in Toile”, Gallery B, Bethesda, MD in 2024.

Photography by Joseph Hyde

Available for Purchase

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/ms-spoonbill-goes-to-battle/164?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=9
Ms. Spoonbill Goes to Battle, detail

Ms. Spoonbill Goes to Battle, detail showing hand embroidery
Under the Bushes

"Under the Bushes" features two reclining figures freehand machine stitched on cotton, and four hybrid bird-headed women that are also freehand machine drawn but in organza. They appear to be protecting the two reclining women and hiding under the bushes from the boys found in the toile fabric. Barkcloth flowers have been cut out, appliquéd, and stitched onto the toile fabric. Added layers of organza have been appliquéd for sky, ground, and shadow.

Stretched and framed in a vintage wooden embroidery hoop measuring 26” X 17” X 1”, 2023

Exhibited in : “Warp & Weft” Richard B. Talkin Family Art Gallery, Howard Community College, Columbia, MD, 2023, “Figure”, Touchstone Gallery, Washington, DC., 2024 and "Unraveling Narratives: A Dialogue in Toile”, Gallery B, Bethesda, MD, 2024.

Photography by Joseph Hyde

Available for Purchase

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/under-the-bushes/194?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=9
Under the Bushes, detail

Under the Bushes, detail showing hand embroidery
The Guardians

The Guardians featured four figures that are freehand machine stitched. Three of the figures have bird heads and one gracious fish crow woman has wings. Hand embroidery has been used to emphasize the pattern from the narrative toile scene fabric to give these figures a powerful feeling of strength as well as transparency.

Bird women are appliqued and reinforced stitched on decor fabric that is stretched and attached to a vintage wooden embroidery hoop measuring 23” X 23” X 1.5”. This piece was created in 2022.

This piece was part of the juried Maryland Artist Directory show at Maryland Art Place, in Baltimore, MD,2023., “B23” Juried exhibit of 25 Artists for Artscape, Baltimore, MD, 2023, “What If?”, Gallery 114, Juried Group themed show, Portland, OR., 2023, and "Unraveling Narratives: A Dialogue in Toile,” Gallery B, Bethesda, MD, 2024

Photography by Joseph Hyde

Available for Purchase

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/the-guardians/161?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=9
The Guardians, detail

The Guardians, detail showing hand embroidery
Ms. Sage Grouse and the Woodcock Try to Save the Day

"Ms. Sage Grouse. and the Woodcock Try to Save The Day" is a fiber piece that features freehand machine and hand embroidery . A seated Sage Grouse woman is a freehand machine stitched on organza that is then appliqued and reinforced stitch onto Toile decor fabric that was originally a proper drape. Her head is hand embroidered, layering color embroidery thread to create depth and form. She sits on a manhole cover created with freehand machine stitching on felt. She sits opposite of an American Woodcock, created by freehand machine painting, creating color and depth by layering color threads. He also stands on a felt manhole cover, freehand stitched on the sewing machine. All added features are appliqued and reinforced stitched onto the upcycled curtain.

The Final piece is stretched onto an 18" X 9" half circle wooden, vintage embroidery hoop.This piece was completed in 2022.

"Unraveling Narratives: A Dialogue in Toile”, Gallery B, Bethesda, MD, 2024, “Reverie&Alchemy”, Center for the Arts Gallery. Towson University, Towson, MD.,2025.

Photography by Joseph Hyde

The Final piece is stretched onto an 18" X 9" half circle wooden, vintage embroidery hoop.This piece was completed in 2022.

Available for Purchase

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Sage Grouse Detail

They Come in Three

They Come in Three is my series that is based on the Three Graces. Drawing upon the historical symbolism associated with the three graces, I sought to embody positive and uplifting emotions, values, and qualities within my bird-woman.

All figures are based on historical or contemporary artworks that feature three figures that are bound or connected together. Figures are created with free-motion embroidery on organza with hand-embroidered bird heads.

The Three Entagled Muses

Three bird-headed figures intertwine with each other. Hand Embroidered bird heads include the Black-neck Stilt, Chinese Goose, and Indian Peafowl. Figures are based on Icelandic artist Hildur Erna Villiblom and are created with free motion and hand embroidery appliqued on toile decor fabric.

23" x 23" x 2"

Created 2024

Photography by Joseph Hyde

Available for Purchase

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/the-three-entangled-muses/467?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=9
detail, The Entangled Muses

detail of Hand Embroidered bird heads
The Healing Three Graces, 2022

The Healing Three Graces, 2022. Freehand machine and hand embroidery on organza and cotton on decor fabric. Stretched in a vintage wooden embroidery hoop. 23" X 23" X 1.5"

Photography by Joseph Hyde
Hummingbird Woman detail

Hand embroidered head and wings.

Photography by Joseph Hyde
The Earth's Three Graces, 2022

"The Earth Three Graces" is a fiber piece that includes freehand machine stitching with hand embroidery bird heads. Figures are freehand machine stitched on organza and organic cotton. Heads and adornments are created with hand embroidery. Birds, from left to right are the California Quail, Western Thrush and Eskimo Curlew. Birds that represent earth colors and unique qualities as well as their vulnerable conservation levels. Bird women are appliquéd and reinforced stitched on decor fabric that is stretched and attached to a vintage wooden embroidery hoop measuring 23” X 23” X 1.5” . This piece was created in 2022.

This piece was part of two juried exhibits. One at the Atlantic Gallery in Chelsea of New York City in January 2023,“B23” Juried exhibit of 25 Artists for Artscape, Baltimore, MD, 2023, “Maryland State Arts Directory Triennial Exhibit, Maryland Art Place, Baltimore, MD.2023, "Unraveling Narratives: A Dialogue in Toile”, Gallery B, Bethesda, MD, 2024, “Reverie&Alchemy”, Center for the Arts Gallery. Towson University, Towson, MD. 2025

Photography by Joseph Hyde

Available for Purchase

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/the-three-fighting-graces/160?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=9
Fighting Three Graces detail

Hand embroidered bird heads.

Photography by Joseph Hyde
Detail of Hand Embroidered Peacock feathers

Available for Purchase

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Detail of Hand embroidered Black-neck Stilt head
Barn Owl Woman detail

Hand embroidered barn owl head

Photography by Joseph Hyde
Preliminary Sketch for Fighting Three Graces

In Dialogue

In Dialogue introduces my bird woman and women to the conversations illustrated in toile decor fabrics. Utilizing free-motion embroidery on organza, cotton, or felt, I rendered each element—figures, birds, and plants. Hand Embroidery is used to emphasize the story.

I'll Bring Marshmallows to Your Fire

Freemotion and Hand embroidery on organza and toile decor fabric.

Measures 18" h x 27" w v 2" D

Created 2024

Photography by Joseph Hyde.

Available for Purchase

Can purchase here
The Hard Conversation

Bird women are created with free motion machine stitching for line work, hand embroidery for bird heads, and additions to figures on toile decor fabric. Stretched and framed in a 23" vintage embroidery hoop. 2023

The Hard Conversation – “I am a fan of how Jennifer is looking back into history using textiles as a ready-made material to provide an unsanitized narrative scene of interrogating the past with the help of flora and fauna and women.” - Chotsanie Elaine Dean, juror for “The Art of Craftsmanship,” Peters Valley of Craft, Layton,

Photography by Joseph Hyde

Exhibited in the following juried art exhibits: “B23” Juried exhibit of 25 Artists for Artscape, Baltimore, MD, in 2023, “Maryland State Arts Directory Triennial Exhibit, Maryland Art Place, Baltimore, MD., “The Art of Craftsmanship,” Peters Valley of Craft, Layton, NJ, 2024, and "Unraveling Narratives: A Dialogue in Toile”, Gallery B, Bethesda, MD 2024-2025.

Available for Purchase

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/the-hard-conversation/162?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=9
Tug-a-war

"Tug a War" is a fiber piece that features two "Fish Crow Women" freehand machine stitched on organza. Bird women are appliquéd and reinforced stitched on toile decor fabric that is stretched and attached to a vintage wooden embroidery hoop measuring 23” X 23” X 1.5”.

The red thread is hand stitched to make a connection between the printed working woman in the toile fabric and the two crow women.

Part of the "Unraveling Narratives: A Dialogue in Toile”, Gallery B, Bethesda, MD, 2024

This piece was created in 2024.

Photography by Joseph Hyde

Available for Purchase

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/tug-a-war/410?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=9
The Squawking Display

Freehand Machine stitched figures on organza. Appliquéd and reinforced stitched onto toile decor fabric. Heads are hand embroidered Stretched in a 20” x 12” x 1” wooden embroidery hoop.

Created in 2024

"Unraveling Narratives: A Dialogue in Toile”, Gallery B, Bethesda, MD, 2024

Photography by Joseph Hyde

Available for Purchase

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/the-squawking-display/203?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=9https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/the-squawking-display/203?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=9
Waiting for the Fete

Waiting for the Fete, 2023

Free-motion and hand embroidery on organza, cotton, barkcloth, and toile decor fabric.

20" x 12" x 1"

"Unraveling Narratives: A Dialogue in Toile”, Gallery B, Bethesda, MD, 2024

Available for Purchase

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/waiting-for-the-f-te/202?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=9
Ruff and Ready

Freehand machine stitched woman and ruff headed woman on organza , appliquéd on toile decor fabric, stretched in a vintage wooden embroidery hoop measuring 27” W X 18” H X 2”D.

"Unraveling Narratives: A Dialogue in Toile”, Gallery B, Bethesda, MD, 2024 and “Reverie&Alchemy”, Center for the Arts Gallery. Towson University, Towson, MD, 2025
Turkey Vulture in Toile

Free-motion embroidery on organza, applique on toile decor fabric.

18" x 18" x 1" 2022

Available for Purchase

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/turkey-vulture-woman-in-toile/359?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=9
Ruff Gal in Mt. Vernon

Ruff Gal is free-motion embroidered on organza and appliqued on toile fabric featuring George Washington's Mt. Vernon home.

18" x 18" x 1"

Created in 2022

Photography by Joseph Hyde

Available for Purchase

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/ruff-gal-in-mt-vernon/358?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=9
Turkey Vulture and Ruff in Toile Conversation, Installation at the Academy Art Museum, Easton, MD for "The Subversive Thread"

Turkey Vulture and Ruff in Toile Conversation, Installation at the Academy Art Museum, Easton, MD for "The Subversive Thread", 2024-25.

Available for Purchase

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/turkey-vulture-woman-in-toile/359?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=9

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/ruff-gal-in-mt-vernon/358?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=9

The Emergence of the Bird Women

The genesis of my bird women can be traced back to the profound impact of Alexander McQueen's exhibition, "Savage Beauty," at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in the summer of 2011. Although the show didn't immediately influence my work, a second viewing at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London in 2015 left an indelible mark, particularly the unforgettable duck wing dress. The incorporation of animal elements in McQueen's creations, including headdresses and dresses, lingered in my thoughts.

The turning point came in 2016 with the advent of the Trump administration, a period marked by a constant barrage of news and a pervasive sense of distrust in the government. Witnessing the erosion of human rights and environmental protections propelled me to seek strength for the fight against what I perceived as an oppressive power. The vision of a bird woman, inspired by McQueen's earlier work, became a symbol of empowerment. I envisioned myself adorned with wings and a helmet, akin to a superwoman, a fighter.

The ensuing rage from this tumultuous period manifested in the creation of my new characters and plants, which now play and interact within the scenes of toile and decor fabrics. To bring these visions to life, I employed a diverse range of materials, selecting fabrics based on their opaqueness and color. From vintage barkcloth to organic cotton to felt, each material contributed to the unique texture and visual richness of the stitched artworks. This series, born out of a period of intense emotion and response to societal challenges, captures the resilience and strength needed to confront adversity.

Ruff Gal Goes to Mt. Vernon

Freemotion embroidery on organza appliquéd on Toile decor fabric depicting George Washington's home, Mt. Vernon. Measures 18" x 18" x 1"

Available for Purchase

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/ruff-gal-in-mt-vernon/358?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=9
Turkey Vulture Woman goes Country

Freemotion emboidery on organza appliquéd on toile decor fabric. Measures 18" x 18" x 1"

Available for Purchase

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/turkey-vulture-woman-in-toile/359?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=9
Queenfisher Dips Her Toes , 2020

"Queenfisher Dips Her Toes", 2020, 24" X 24" X 1" Freehand machine-stiched bird-women, swimming pool and tree. The Diving board and Ladder are also freehand machined drawn on felt.
Ruff Gal's Army , 2021

"Ruff Gal's Army , 2021, is a fiber piece that features freehand machine stitching and painting. The Ruff women and the Queenfisher are freehand machine stitched on organza that is then appliquéd and reinforced stitch on to vintage barkcloth fabric. The barn owl and grackle are also freehand machine-stiched with color threads ( along with the queenfisher head) on organic cotton that is also appliquéd and reinforced stitched onto the barkcloth. Two Ginko leaves are stitched on felt and stitched onto the barkcloth. The Final piece is stretched onto a 27" X 18" oval wooden, vintage embroidery hoop.
Ruff Gal, 2021

"Ruff Gal" is part of a series of hoop pieces that feature collaborative birds, women, and plants interacting amongst vintage decor fabrics. All subjects have been freehand machine stitch on fabrics ranging from organic cotton to organza to felt. All pieces in this section are one of a kind. Ruff gal is a freehand machine stitched on organza that is appliqued and stitched onto vintage decor toile fabric. Flowers surround her are stitched on high-quality wool blend felt. This piece is attached to an 18" wooden round disc and then framed in a vintage wooden 18" embroidery hoop. Another wooden disc then is attached for backing, which is then signed and dated along with a metal D ring for hanging.
A Nap in the Garden , 2021

"A Nap in the Garden" is a fiber piece that includes freehand machine stitching with some hand embroidered french knots!. A bird-headed figure is a freehand machine stitched drawn on organza that is then appliqued and reinforced stitch on to vintage barkcloth. A Plantain English plant is also a freehand machine stitched for the outlines and for the color filling with hand embroidered french knots. A swallow is a freehand machine stitched on blue felt and appliqued and reinforced stitched onto the barkcloth, The Final piece is stretched onto a 15 X 8" wooden oval vintage wooden embroidery hoop.
The Monkey Dance, 2020

"The Monkey Dance" 2020. 18" X 18" X 1" Freehand machine-stitched crow headed figure, brown pelican and heather on fabric, felt blindfold. Stretched and frame in a vintage wooden embroidery hoop.
Dance of the Woodcock, 2019

"Dance of the Woodcock" 2020. 18" X 18" X 1" Freehand machine-stitched bird-headed figure, woodcock and plant on fabric. Stretch ed and frame in a vintage wooden embroidery hoop.

Watch Children 2022

The "Watch Children" series is a contemporary reinterpretation of contour line drawings that originated from sketches of my high school students during my tenure as an art teacher at a Baltimore County High School spanning over 30 years. These drawings served as the foundation for a series of paintings I created in 2005, marking the final chapter of my painting era before transitioning into the realm of fiber art.

In "Watch Children," I reimagine these teens , now with added bird heads , are now tasked with the responsibility of overseeing vital environmental specimens. The artworks capture their palpable boredom and weariness in the face of this newfound duty. I've experimented with various bird heads, patterned backgrounds, props, and essential seeds and pollinators crucial for our ecosystem's sustenance and the thriving of their avian lives.

Employing freehand machine stitching, I replicate the fluidity of my original ink drawings, infusing each piece with dynamic texture. Diverse fabrics contribute to the works' tactile richness, providing overlays and patterns that enhance the visual complexity of the series. Through "Watch Children," I bridge the past and present, drawing on my teaching experience and artistic evolution to explore themes of environmental stewardship and the interplay between youth and responsibility in the context of our ecosystem.

Michael and Jeffrey Globe Dreaming

This piece is titled "Michael and Jeffrey Globe Dreaming " features all freehand machine stitching on Michael the Curlew head and Jeffrey the Woodcock headed figures ,stitched on organza , cotton fabric for her clothes is then appliquéd and then the entire figure is appliquéd and reinforced stitched onto the decor cotton fabric. The pussy willow seed pod is also freehand machine stitched on cotton fabric that is then appliquéd and reinforced stitched on.
Allison Just Wants Toast, 2022

Allison Just Wants Toast, 2022. Freehand Machine stitching on organza, cotton and felt; image transfer on cotton. Framed 13.5" X 10.5"X 2"
Stephen Takes A Walk through the Woods

Freehand Machine stitching on organza, cotton and felt on cotton. Framed 13.5" X 10.5"X 2"
Brian Having a Hard Watching Over His Seeds and Nuts

Freehand Machine stitching on organza, cotton and felt on cotton. Framed 13.5" X 10.5"X 2"

Available for Purchase

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/brian-having-a-hard-time-guarding-the-nuts/175?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=10
Kevin

Freehand machine stitching on organza, cotton and felt, image transfer on cotton.

Available for Purchase

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/kevin/172?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=10
Brian and The Wren

Freehand Machine stitching on organza and cotton appliqué on cotton. Framed 9.5" X9.5"X 2"
Alison Still Wants Her Toast, 2022

Freehand Machine stitching on organza, cotton and felt; image transfer on cotton. Framed 13.5" X 10.5"X 2"

Available for Purchase

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/allison-just-wants-toast-again/178?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=10
Elise

Available for Purchase

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Ruby

This piece is titled "Ruby” that is based off of my painting contour line drawings of my student Ruby. Ruby has a Green tail Towhee head with a teenager body and is freehand machine stitched on organza and appliqué and stitched on legal paper pattern fabric. The walnuts that she is watching are freehand machine stitched on high quality felt. The diagram of plant transition is freehand machine stitched on the fabric directly. This final piece is stretched on a wooden painting panel and then framed with a pine wood. The dimensions of this framed work is 11.5" X 9.5" X 2"

Available for Purchase

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/ruby/169?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=10
Michael and Jeffrey

"The Genealogy of My Imaginary Family"..Birdland and the Anthropocene and Beyond, 2017- 2023

In 2017, I expanded my repertoire of sewn bird portraits into a larger family, forming the ancestral figures in my piece titled "The Genealogy of My Imaginary Family." This composition was created specifically for the "Birdland and Anthropocene" exhibit at the Peale Museum, where it filled a prominent display case.

Comprising 13 freehand machine-stitched bird portraits, ranging from 3" to 14" in size, the canvas-stretched circular hooped birds collectively resembled a genealogy tree reflecting diverse human personalities. The selection of native birds, spanning from the familiar to extirpated breeds in Maryland, aimed to evoke a sense of familial connection. The arrangement of these portraits tells a nuanced narrative through subtle expressive reactions and silent dialogue, akin to family portraits.

Each bird portrait was meticulously crafted using freehand machine stitching, a method of manipulating the canvas under the moving needle to draw every mark, value, and detail. The labor-intensive process resulted in line drawings that served as a dedicated homage to the preservation of these avian species.

Since the creation of this piece, my "family" of bird portraits has continued to evolve. The portraits vary in shape and size, from ruff to helmeted guineafowl, and from profiles to full-body representations. The transition from black thread to a spectrum of colors adds depth and vibrancy to the ongoing series. In 2023, I introduced these bird portraits as collaborators within scenes found in toile fabrics, further expanding the narrative and visual richness of my evolving avian family.

Check out the show here for the Birdland and the Anthropocene catalogue

IMG_8657.jpeg

Freehand machine stitched green kingfisher appliquéd and stitched onto toile decor fabric. Stretched in a 14" embroidery hoop.
gallery view

Gallery view of the Installation in the Peale Centre . Piece was arranged and installed in the white case. Photo by Joe Hyde.
the genealogy of my imaginary family

Freehand machine stitched bird portraits on canvas, ranging in sizes 14" to 3", stretched in embroidery hoops. Arranged to represent or mock a human family ancestor tree. 2017
Burrow Owl

"Burrow Owl" , 10" Embroidery Hoop, Freehand Machine Embroidery

Available for Purchase

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/burrowing-owl-stitched-portrait/108?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=8
Freehand Machine Drawing of European Starling

Freehand Machine Drawing of European Starling on my long arm quilting machine, 2019
Starling

"Starling" , 12" Embroidery Hoop, Freehand Machine Embroidery

Available for Purchase

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/european-starling/113?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=8
Ruff

"Ruff" , 14" Embroidery Hoop, Freehand Machine Embroidery

Available for Purchase

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/ruff-stitched-portrait/106?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=8
Broad Billed Hummingbird , 2020

This Broad-billed Hummingbird is one of the newest and the first full-color bird portraits of my bird portrait series. This one is more than a portrait that emphasizes his full and brave body! !This drawing is based on a photograph from a bird app. on my iPad. This bird is created completely with thread, layering colors to create the form of the bird. This bird portrait has been created by freehand stitching on a sewing machine! Otherwise, I draw with my sewing machine. There is absolutely no programming involved. I draw each portrait first as an ink drawing and use that to trace guidelines of the image on the canvas using a fabric marker that fades or washes away. Even though I may use the same drawing per bird, each becomes an of a kind due to the process that I use. Stitched in black on heavy duty cotton duck canvas fabric and is stretched in a 14".
Pigeon Gets Held Up, 2023

Freehand machine stitched band tail pigeon on toile decor fabric, stretched on a 14" embroidery hoop.

Available for Purchase

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/the-band-tailed-pigeon-gets-held-up/159?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=9

Figures in Thread

The exploration of figures in thread has been a central focus of my artistic journey since my inaugural piece, "Girl with Bird," in 2014. To maintain and enhance my drawing skills, I engaged in figure drawing sessions at the Maryland Institute, College of Art. Drawing inspiration from the female figure as a potent means of expression, I naturally transitioned to challenging myself by stitching figures on my sewing machine.

"Lost in Collaboration" marked a pivotal moment for me, feeling like a true homecoming. This piece seamlessly captured the layered approach reminiscent of my painting days. The collaboration between figures, birds, and patterned backgrounds rekindled the essence of my past as a painter. Drawing parallels with my earlier practice of painting wallpaper backgrounds, I translated the layering of line work, color shaping, and playful opaqueness into the realm of fabric and felt.

The two studies of women, inspired by works by Richard Diebenkorn, represent a departure as they incorporate felt into the background for added color depth. This experimentation with felt adds a tactile and visual dimension, further expanding the expressive possibilities within my exploration of figures in thread. The evolution of my work reflects a seamless transition from traditional drawing to the intricacies of stitching, capturing the essence of collaboration and layered narratives.

Lost in Collaboration, 2018

"Lost in Collaboration" 2018, 18" X 18" X 1" Freehand machine-stiched drawn figure, trees, and bird on toile fabric and canvas stretched in an 18" embroidery hoop.

Available for Purchase

https://www.jennyjen42.com/product/lost-in-collaboration/166?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=9
Lost in Collaboration, detail , 2018

Freehand machine stitched line work on fabric, felt applique.
Dream , 2018

"Dream" 2020, 20" X 12" X .5" Freehand machine-stitched figure and dandelion on cotton fabric, freehand machine flower on felt, appliqued and reinforced sewn on vintage barkcloth. Stretched and framed in a vintage wooden embroidery hoop.
The Sign of the BlueBird, 2018

"The Sign of the BlueBird", 2020. 27" x 18" x 1" Freehand machine-stiched figure, bluebird, and coneflower plant on fabric, flower diagrams freehand machine stitched on felt, all applique on toile fabric. Stretched and frame in the vintage wooden embroidery hoop.
Jenny the Wren , 2019

"Jenny the Wren " 2020. 16" X 16" X 1" Freehand machine-stitched figure, wren, hibiscus outline, and dandelion plant. Hand Embroidered flowers, on toile fabric. Stretched and frame in a vintage embroidered hoop.
Sleeping Seasons , 2014

"Sleeping Seasons ", 2014 Freehand machine stitching on canvas and vintage barkcloth 15" x 10"
After Deibenkorn Girl with Flower Background, 2019

Freehand machine stitching on canvas and felt. Based on Richard Diebenkorn's "Girl with Flower Background" 8" X 10" , 2019
After Deibenkorn, Seated Woman No. 44, 2019

"After Deibenkorn, Seated Woman No. 44", 2019 . Freehand machine stitching on canvas and felt 8" X 6" x 1.5"

Looking through the Lines

My exploration of overlaying lines traces back to the early nineties, inspired by the captivating work of David Salle. Salle's ability to prompt viewers to discover new dialogues within overlaid images and his adept use of juxtaposition left a lasting impact on my artistic sensibilities. During this period, marked by introspection and a quest for my artistic vocabulary, I delved into soul-searching and sought inspiration from childhood textbooks and found imagery.

In my early paintings, I embraced the technique of projecting images, playing with textures, and overlaying images and color. The projected line, in particular, became a meditative and labor-intensive aspect of my work. This technique persisted throughout much of my painting career, allowing me to express complex narratives through the layering of visual elements.

The parallels between my painting and fiber work became apparent as I continued my artistic journey. In my fiber art, I draw on the traced line, overlaying it onto the pattern, and integrating it with the color shapes of fabric and felt. This approach, reminiscent of my earlier painting technique, signifies a seamless transition in my exploration of overlaying lines, demonstrating the enduring influence of David Salle's innovative use of juxtaposition and layered imagery.