MODERN TAKE on an ANTIQUE RUG

Serendipity inspired this particular blog post ~ but more about that later in the post.

As mentioned previously I enjoy sharing information I've gleaned thru the years since teaching myself to hook.  I sometimes struggled and  had questions not knowing anyone to ask and know there are others who are more remote than I was at that time.   So sharing my frustrations and failures lets you know it's okay, we've all been there and am here now for you to ask.  And maybe, just maybe I've posted something or a way to do something rug hooking related you hadn't thought of before.

You regular readers know I've introduced various types of antiques as ideas to inspire rugs ~ wood carvings, stitcheries, antique tapestries, etc.  Have also made you aware of talented rug hookers whom you may not be aware.  This post is about those things.  

For example, let's take this 1890 hooked Pennsylvania rug of Birds in Tree which I posted on my blog eons ago.  Definitely an antique but what if it inspired someone to modernize it, to make it more indigenous to their region?

Perhaps the Birds in Tree rug might look like this Alligator in Small Pond.  The pond might be small but the rug isn't, it measures 66 x 66.

Below is a closeup of the textiles used in the border.  Notice they are a mixture woven cotton, yarn, embroidery, rope, fringe and other found objects.  Just like they did back in 'the olden days'.  If walked on it would eventually become a mellowed out well worn antique with the same look as the antique one.  Except I sincerely doubt this will ever see the floor.   

Did I mention "serendipity"?  Yes, Alligator in Small Pond is the work of artist and teacher Troy Dugas.  He is the person who purchased the Early Farm Scene rug.  He shared this rug and other artistic work with me after the rug was in the mail to him.  I'm honored by his desire for a piece of my work and in learning he has followed my blog for years.  He most enjoys the antique rug shows, you can see why.

 

Check out Troy's web site to see his other works HERE.  He presently has a showing at the Galveston Art Center until November 17th.  When you click on the "here" you can navigate to several photos which may direct you to more of his art.

Thank you Troy and wishing you lots of commissions from your show.

Saundra

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