I was inspired to create this, my first Hoffman Challenge entry, by Hoffman’s history of dedication to making beautiful authentic batik fabrics, this landmark anniversary, and our shared love of the sea. My design features a “C” (Roman numeral for 100) of sun peeking through clouds as it both sets on Hoffman’s first 100 years and rises on the next. With a lighthouse to guide them safely, I echo quilted undulating waves in the curvaceous black border radiating out to the binding with the hope Hoffman will continue to ride them to even greater success in this next 100 years.
I incorporated all 15 of Hoffman’s 100th Anniversary Challenge fabrics into my design using improvisational string piecing and Aurifil 50 weight thread. The “C” shaped orange sun slivers and its reflections on the waves below were hand appliqued. I painted the lighthouse using Caran d’Ache Classic Neocolor water soluble pastels, then hand appliqued it atop the green headland overlooking the sea. Its lantern room and light were free-motion embroidered. Embellishments include couched wool yarns around which 1/8th” silk ribbons were sewn and woven. I free-motion quilted the scene and in the reverse appliqued black border, I echo quilted undulating waves.
“C”entennial Sea has been entered in the 100 Years Hoffman’s Challenge in the Mixed Techniques category. Time will tell if it was accepted into their anniversary exhibit.
11/20/2023
Today, I got the good news…
Jean, curator of the Hoffman 100 Year Challenge, wrote to say, “I am thrilled to inform you that your submission has been chosen by our esteemed judges to be featured in our upcoming traveling show for the year 2024. This year has been particularly captivating with an abundance of exceptional entries, making this the largest traveling exhibit in the last ten years.
Your unique artwork will play a significant role in shaping this extraordinary showcase!
As we embark on the next phase, we will carefully curate your piece as part of a captivating 20-piece collection that will journey across the country, making appearances at various guilds and shows. The Road to California Show in Ontario, CA, scheduled for January 17-20, 2024, plans to showcase the complete collection.”