Laura Beth Sharp Designs: Russian Doll and Japanese Figure Paintings

Welcome to Laura Beth Designs

"The ideas for my current work began through drawing collections of children’s toys and decorative objects from different countries around the world. I was inspired by their vibrant colours, mixture of decorative patterns and playful nature of the objects. I have enjoyed processing and developing these drawings through using Photoshop. This has enabled me to establish and narrative and fuse toys and patterns from different cultures together. My textile pieces and wrapping papers were directly inspired by this work. They are created using a combination of screen and digital print and machine embroidery utilising specialist Cornely machines. My design work could be applied to an interior or fashion context for children, stationary such as gift wrap and cards or children’s book illustration."

Sunday, 13 January 2008

Russian Doll and Japanese Figure Paintings

Inspired by the decorative figures I saw in Harrogate in November, I created these four paintings in the early part of January. I was drawn to the peaceful expressions on the dolls' faces and of course the vibrant colours and patterns.

All Paintings £40

I am also planning a new textile wall hanging and have come up with a design! If I get it finished in time, I would like to enter it into one of the competitions at the Festival of Quilts! I took part in the show last year and loved the friendly atmosphere at the show. It takes place in September at the NEC Birmingham and showcases quilts from countries around the world. There are lots of stalls at the show also selling fabrics and craft materials.