All three of the fabric postcards have been fun to make, but this one proved to be more of a design challenge. For the other 2 postcards, I turned the figures into fabric appliques and then used my sewing machine to stitch the details. However, for Van Gogh’s Starry Night, I took a good look at the painting and thought I needed a different approach. So, instead of making an applique, I painted a loose copy of the original on my fabric and then machine quilted the details.

I really like working on these small pieces because I get a chance to experiment with different techniques. I could really see using the technique that I used for this postcard for my own original designs. Although I have to say that I’ve enjoyed looking at some of history’s art icons and reinterpreting the paintings into fabric.

Want to see where it all happens? Here’s a photo of my work area (see below) which is currently in the basement of our house. I need more room, but am happy that I have a place to call my own! This was taken a few days ago, and it is significantly messier now. When I start having to search too hard for things, I tidy up. I’m almost there as of today!

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11 Responses to “Van Gogh Challenge”
  1. Well I think you are outdoing yourself because this is really gorgeous. ME thinks I might have to have it.

  2. You did a very good rendition. I thought that maybe it had been printed fabric at first. Keep up with the idea.

  3. Cyn this one is really gorgeous and your work space looks like a wonderful place to be creative! I can just picture you busy at work in there!

  4. BTW, did you use a photograph? ;-)

  5. Oh Jafabrit, you are too kind!

    Janet, no I’m not printing on fabric! I took an image of the painting, scaled it to size, gridded it out and then painted on blue batik fabric that I had. You gave me an idea though. I think today, I am going to do another Van Gogh because his work is so painterly and then take photos as I go for documentation. I’m thinking the “Cafe Terrace at Night”.

    Thanks Lyn! I took these photos for a “share” you work space thread on some online forum. It’s much messier now!

  6. The thought that you would have used printed fabric didnt make any sense to me. Upon closer inspection I could see that you had painted it cause the colors were so much brighter.

    You will never look at an old master the same again. Just think of all them out there that you can use. You will be a busy gal.

  7. Paula Manning-Lewis says:

    This is my favorite to date!
    Thanks for sharing the work space photo! I love seeing where artists work.
    I cannot wait to see the next fabric postcard, keep up the great work!

  8. cheque is on the way today :)

  9. W. J. St. Christopher says:

    Love this, Cynthia. I couldn’t see the stitching detail, then remembered to ‘click’ the photo to see a larger view. It’s gorgeous!

    It’s great to peek at your workspace, too. Like everyone else, I really enjoy seeing these!

  10. Okay - now I’m pissed - I need to not get into big ugly fights and I might have beaten jafabrit to this.

    Cynthia - it’s way cool. Great job.

  11. OMG!! Cynthia!! This is absolutely stunning!! WOW!! I’m out of words. Just wow!!

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