Artist - Lydia P. Allen
The inspiration for my wool art has evolved from a love and appreciation for the creative handwork of the Early Americans, from the very primitive to the very detailed pieces. My wool creations incorporate themes and patterns that symbolize, to me, peace and simplicity. Hence, the name I chose for my art-"Peace Works."
I have always been fascinated with needlework and handmade pieces, appreciating the time and creativity that each contained. My embroidery days began at an early age, with a wooden hoop, a printed design on muslin and lots of colorful floss. Today some of my materials have changed, but the love of being creative and sharing that with others has blossomed.
Like the Wool Penny Rugs from the early 19th century, I use mostly recycled wool from clothing and blankets. New pieces of wool are blended in with the old. There can be several processes before a particular piece of wool becomes a heirloom piece of art. Each piece is cleaned, felted and some are re-dyed to compliment my selected pallet of colors. All of the shades, textures and patterns fit together to create an image that always tells a story.
Each piece of my wool art is unique in that I hand cut and stitch each piece. I create my own personal designs and many times without a pattern. An idea comes to mind, I begin cutting the wool, and then the creation takes place. There will always be a little something different from piece to piece.
Peace Works has been a dream of mine for quite some time. It was created in the summer of 2009. On December 18, 2009, I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. I thought my dream was over, but little did I know...it was actually preparing me and just beginning. This has been a journey I would not have chosen, but God is faithfully carrying me through. The peace and love I have experienced is more than I could have ever imagined. So many prayers answered. I feel with all my heart that God used the creation of Peace Works as a preparation and He will continue to use it to provide peace and strength for the journey. Not only for me, but for others. My husband, Wayne, is traveling this journey right by my side. Loving me, and caring for me. He is my biggest encourager and for him, I am ever so grateful. I love him with all my heart.
It is my hope that the intricate wool art I design will inspire others to develop a special appreciation for the art of needlework and handmade pieces-and that those works will ensure that a craft of the early Americans will never be forgotten. And now with my new journey , I hope sharing my experiences and my work will encourage and bring hope to other women. God is so faithful!!
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives.
Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27
"And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding,
will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7
"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." Hebrews 11:1