This piece explores the intersection of whimsical character design and the high-texture world of rug tufting, merging the geometric precision of traditional diamond patterns with the soft, organic "fluff" of tufted fiber. Born from a blend of pop-surrealism, circus lore, and the eccentric spirit of clowns and Harley Quinn in this crazy time, the stylized figure uses a vibrant palette of teal, magenta, and deep plum. As a study in bringing flat illustrations into a three-dimensional world, the work utilizes varied pile heights—including rare textures from a short-lived venture with a long-pile tufting gun before it broke—to invite viewers into a physical, tactile landscape.
Now nearing completion, the final composition is beautifully framed by a wonderful, puffy rainbow edging that perfectly highlights the piece's playful nature. In place of a typical gray backing, I took a nontraditional route and used a woven blanket, fighting double time against its shredding edges to cut and bind it before it could unravel. This work serves as a vital reminder of the necessity of softness, resourcefulness, and playfulness in creativity. Ultimately, my hope is for this piece to find its perfect home in a space that deeply understands the value of whimsical art—whether that's a communal space like the Boulder Circus Center, or hanging in someone’s awesome closet right next to a disco ball.
This piece explores the intersection of whimsical character design and the high-texture world of rug tufting, merging the geometric precision of traditional diamond patterns with the soft, organic "fluff" of tufted fiber. Born from a blend of pop-surrealism, circus lore, and the eccentric spirit of clowns and Harley Quinn in this crazy time, the stylized figure uses a vibrant palette of teal, magenta, and deep plum. As a study in bringing flat illustrations into a three-dimensional world, the work utilizes varied pile heights—including rare textures from a short-lived venture with a long-pile tufting gun before it broke—to invite viewers into a physical, tactile landscape.
Now nearing completion, the final composition is beautifully framed by a wonderful, puffy rainbow edging that perfectly highlights the piece's playful nature. In place of a typical gray backing, I took a nontraditional route and used a woven blanket, fighting double time against its shredding edges to cut and bind it before it could unravel. This work serves as a vital reminder of the necessity of softness, resourcefulness, and playfulness in creativity. Ultimately, my hope is for this piece to find its perfect home in a space that deeply understands the value of whimsical art—whether that's a communal space like the Boulder Circus Center, or hanging in someone’s awesome closet right next to a disco ball.
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