Donna Marder – Looking Back at Paraguay

“Recently, (during the last five years) I have been applying techniques I developed sewing paper to, what is a new material for me–fabric. Although there is a lengthy history of dressmaking, quilting and other needlework techniques my fabric pieces have evolved from this unusual byway.
During the pandemic I worked almost exclusively on two commissions. The pieces in this show evolved from that focused work. They are both constructed from material left over from the 20’ x 7’ wall-piece that will be installed in the American Embassy in Paraguay this year. The second commission was a much smaller family memento piece which used a leaf/eye/flame shape. Remembering it as a favorite theme of my own, it became the main motif and structural element of “Looking Back at Paraguay”.
‘Remnant Wounds’ uses the reverse side of the vibrant, raucous material I used for the embassy work exposing a subtler, precious, jewel-like surface. This hanging also re-uses a favorite personal theme: layered hurts.
Both pieces reflect the closing in of the pandemic. Using what is at hand. And a revisiting of self.”