It is not clear where SARA got the idea for wrapping small trinkets in the center of fabric balls created from wound strips of upcycled texiles, but her three children looked forward with much Anticipation to them, especially at Christmas time. The fabric strips were wound around a small gift — a charm or small token that was thoughtfully chosen for each person — and placed under the tree. The strips were cut or torn, depending on the type of fabric, from the remnants of other textile projects and clothing items that SARA disassembled from her thrift store findings.
My Surprise, a collection of fabric balls
It is likely that the wrapped balls were inspired as she braided wool rugs, one of the many ways that SARA used her creativity and aesthetic sensibilities to furnish her home. Later, SARA used similar strips to create the foundation of her fabric sculptures, including tufts and fabric half bodies.
SARA’s daughter, Heidi, remembers unwinding the strips very slowly, trying to imagine what carefully selected treasure might be at the center of her ball, often cherishing this gift more than other packages under the tree. Some years it was a beautiful button, stone, or shell. As very young children, a Cracker Jack prize or tiny carved wooden animal could delight. As a teenager, Heidi remembers finding a beautiful heirloom ring at the center of her ball.
Anticipation is on exhibit in a show titled Inside Outward: the Art of Sara Joyce at the Pacific Northwest Quilt and Fiber Arts Museum in La Conner, Washington, until January 25, 2020. The show also features fabric half- and full-bodies and the debut showing of clothing and jewelry made and worn by the artist. On November 22, participants in the Museum’s “Jingle Belles” event will create Anticiption-inspired fabric balls.
“Jingle Belles” – A Ladies Night of Shopping
Friday, November 22, 2019, 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM PST
La Conner merchants stay open late for your shopping convenience! The Museum hosts a special activity in our Education & Conservation Annex, 112 Morris Street, La Conner.
Untitled (One Eye), a large wrapped fabric ball