I spent my professional life working as a research biologist, so as you can imagine I’m always interested in animals – both in their biology and their possibilities as models for art. And if you follow this blog you will know that most of my designs feature birds and animals – sometimes lifelike, and sometimes more cartoonish or abstract
Some time ago my friend Cherri suggested that I design some realistic animals for a quilt she wanted to make, and as you can imagine I jumped at the chance. So here are a couple of results. First there is this quite lifelike lynx. It’s not an animal I would have chosen to do, but I think it turned out well, The zig-zag pattern comes from the fabric that Cherri used for the appliqué step and again, although it’s not what I would have chosen myself, to my surprise it looks very good
A zig-zag lynx
And here is another animal – a little raccoon. Actually this is a very old design which I did many years ago, but it goes very well with the other creatures that Cherri used for her quilt
A very old raccoon
These designs have made me think seriously about doing more animals in a less arty, more realistic style. The animals are beautiful in themselves, so there's no reason why embroideries that reflect that shouldn't be attractive too
Oh, I love these designs!
Wow I love your animals. You do amazing work.
The lynx looks very attentive, I agree he looks very good with the zig-zag. I like the raccoon more, he looks like he has been frightened and is ready to run away and not attack.
You always do great with animals and insects, and now we know why.
You know just how they should look. My animals look like kids drew them. I hope she will let you show us her quilt when she is done, that would be exciting to see how she used them.
Linda V
Hi Mia, Your animals are phenomenal !!I like the zigzag fabric used in the applique lynx too. I will be looking forward to many more of your realistic animals in both fill and applique, or a mix of the two. I agree with Linda, and would love to see your friend’s quilt when she finishes it.