The Cultural Fabric of Bel-Red

I started embroidering after my 2009 Peru trip, when I was searching for a portable craft to keep my hands busy during future travels. read on>>>

This year I didn't finish my project before I left and decided the 4 days of travel between Seattle and Ollantaytambo would be a good time to test the true travel-friendliness of embroidery. TSA guidelines permit for most supplies needed for needlecrafts and although I don't yet have security approved scissors I persevered with the TACA plastic cutlery. If I hadn't been late and panicked as I rushed out the door and packed ALL my embroidery floss, it would have even been space efficient. When I was there though, I found it easy to find floss, but difficult to find appropriate cloth. Other note, super cool, this was my first commissioned piece.

To further explain the piece, a quote from the presentation...

With the new plan in mind, we privately commissioned Seattle artist, Mariko Hirasawa to create this hand embroidered map interpreting the Bel-Red sub-area plan... She has identified exisiting arts and cultural assets that include Pacific Northwest Ballet School, Francia Russell Performing Arts Center, Mike Lull Guitar Works, Donn Bennett Drum Studio, Evolution Studios, Northwest Guitars, American Music, Mill Music and others with French knots.