As a textile artist I use the traditional method of quilted applique (adding a layer of wadding between the background and design fabric) in order to cushion the surface. ‘Green Buddha Temple’ is an example of individual panels with a depth of 1.5 inches.
What Is Surface Contouring?
Stuffing structures to create real depth raises the surface away from the flat background creating a contoured sculptural quality. ‘Vibrant Buddha Temple’ is a simple design with a depth of four inches. A play of light casts shadow over the undulating surface which changes throughout the day.
The hood in ‘Mother and Child’ has a depth of six inches. The structure is manipulated and moulded to appear naturally contoured with deep folds.
What Is A Padded Structure?
A padded structure can be created from individual parts, stuffed and stitched together. ‘Old Ted’ has a total of eight body parts and a depth of three inches.
A single structure can be stuffed and moulded like a sculpture. The outer skin of ‘Tomato’ has an internal wall (red satin adorned in sequins) between the padded external structure and the internal cavity. A depth of five inches raises the structure from the flat background.
The vagina in ‘Gang Bang’ is not as densely packed but achieves the same depth through careful manipulation of folds and pleats within the contoured surface.
Using A Layered Structure
‘Breast Cancer 2: Mastectomy’ has a depth of six inches constructed from layers of fabric, plastics and wadding. I enjoy seeing the creative process along side the finished product. An element of voyeurism is created, enticing the viewer inside.
I enjoy the challenge of creating textiles with real depth and sculptural beauty. The play of light upon a contoured surface changes with the weather and time of day.
Examples of padded 3D Textiles can be found in both the Natural and Womanhood Collections by Christine Cunningham.
