Made by Andrea L Nelson
I have been making found object assemblages for over 20 years but just recently started experimenting with textile art. I envisioned taxidermy head mounts but with rich upholstery samples, vintage tea towels and other found fabrics instead of skin. After lots of searching, Jonni’s jackrabbit and bear patterns were the most realistic and proportional foundations I could find and now papercraft is in my bag of tricks. Instead of adding paper mache to the form, I apply batting and then tailor the fabric pieces on, stitching them in place and distressing raw edges for a more organic look. Noses are painted paper clay. Visit my brand new Etsy store for more images and with more to come at https://www.etsy.com/shop/AntelopeArtsStudio. You can see my other artwork and place-based projects at antelopearts.com.
These animal heads with the fabric are wonderful. The placement of the fabric pattern works so well with the features of the animals. Great idea and your execution is perfect. Congrats!!
Thank you very much for the feedback Pat. Working together the natural lines of the animal and the patterns on the fabric is the heart of the pleasure!
I saw a similar process on youtube’s Debi’s Design Diary, where she was making her own version of an Anthropologie piece. She purchased a ready made deer head and glued on fabric. I have been wanting to do my own version, and found a couple of simple heads (deer and cow, I believe) and have some patterned paper I was looking at using. I think fabric is a better choice as paper will wrinkle alot. If I make anything like that, I will be sure to mention your Etsy store and Debi’s Design Diary as inspiration with any posts. Your pieces look very accomplished!
What a creative use of vintage fabric! Love the bunny heads in particular.
Thanks Leslie! I’ve collected the fabric scraps for years and feel like I finally found a “worthy” application for them!
Wow! These are fabulous and I’m sure you will do well with Etsy once they are discovered! What a great use for your textiles and what great compilation by you! Seriously talented! I wish you luck on Etsy and you should also consider jurying for an art show.