© 2023 Monika Tilschová.
All rights reserved.
All rights reserved.
These websites use cookies to ensure you get the best content.
I understand and agree
Monika
Tilschová
Tilschová
French Journey to Japan
I had a pivotal encounter with patchwork and quilting in 2006 at an international exhibition in Sainte-Marie-aux-Mines, France - a showcase not only of modern and traditional works, but also of extensive collections of historical, predominantly American quilts. Thanks to this exhibition, I discovered a rich variety of paths to explore. And it was here that I found my own path.
I was literally blown away by the perfectly handcrafted, large-scale quilts by Japanese artist Yoko Saito, which sparked my interest in Japanese fabrics, patterns, and techniques. I then pursued the classic approach of mostly hand-sewn and always hand-quilted patchwork.
Therefore, my work is based on a careful selection of suitable fabrics. It may take several years to accumulate a sufficient amount of color-coordinated fabrics for a specific theme. After such long preparation, I always feel great joy when I begin the actual implementation. Currently, I focus mainly on appliqué and create one quilt on average over the course of 1 to 2 years, sometimes even longer.
Gradually, I have shifted my attention to literature dealing with the history of certain periods and the resulting diversity of textile patterns processed through patchwork techniques.
Therefore, my work is based on a careful selection of suitable fabrics. It may take several years to accumulate a sufficient amount of color-coordinated fabrics for a specific theme. After such long preparation, I always feel great joy when I begin the actual implementation. Currently, I focus mainly on appliqué and create one quilt on average over the course of 1 to 2 years, sometimes even longer.
Gradually, I have shifted my attention to literature dealing with the history of certain periods and the resulting diversity of textile patterns processed through patchwork techniques.
Gallery
Here you can view some of my works.
Inspiration
Great inspiration for me comes not only from specific historical periods but also from places and countries significant for quilting.
18th Century Dutch Quilt
New fabrics from the Far East became a fashionable matter among the higher middle class in Europe, as the highest quality hand-painted chintzes were very expensive. This fabric stood out for its beautiful floral motifs often in large dimensions (see Tree of Life).
Thanks to its surface starch layer, it also had a high gloss and resistance to soiling. The distinguishing feature of luxurious Dutch quilts at that time was the red fabric lining.
New fabrics from the Far East became a fashionable matter among the higher middle class in Europe, as the highest quality hand-painted chintzes were very expensive. This fabric stood out for its beautiful floral motifs often in large dimensions (see Tree of Life).
Thanks to its surface starch layer, it also had a high gloss and resistance to soiling. The distinguishing feature of luxurious Dutch quilts at that time was the red fabric lining.
60s of the 19th century in the USA.
The Civil War period was also significant in terms of patchwork. American quilts, unlike those from the Netherlands, always had a certain symbolism and social significance. At the beginning of the war, women organized sewing circles across the country to provide enough blankets for the soldiers. It is estimated that they sewed more than 250,000 quilts.
The lives of women changed during and after the war. By serving the community through sewing blankets and earning money at charity bazaars, they laid the foundation for reform movements that significantly contributed to the development of women's rights.
This period was characterized by distinctive fabric patterns, muted colors, and the significance of individual blocks. Used clothing and leftover fabrics were especially used when sewing blankets.
The Civil War period was also significant in terms of patchwork. American quilts, unlike those from the Netherlands, always had a certain symbolism and social significance. At the beginning of the war, women organized sewing circles across the country to provide enough blankets for the soldiers. It is estimated that they sewed more than 250,000 quilts.
The lives of women changed during and after the war. By serving the community through sewing blankets and earning money at charity bazaars, they laid the foundation for reform movements that significantly contributed to the development of women's rights.
This period was characterized by distinctive fabric patterns, muted colors, and the significance of individual blocks. Used clothing and leftover fabrics were especially used when sewing blankets.
England at the end of the 19th century
The Arts and Crafts movement led by William Morris focused on the importance of high-quality craftsmanship in products. As a counterpoint to factory production during the Industrial Revolution, William Morris called for a revival of appreciation for handmade work.
Even more than 100 years later, his work continues to influence craftsmen and artists with its colorful and predominantly plant-inspired motifs.
The Arts and Crafts movement led by William Morris focused on the importance of high-quality craftsmanship in products. As a counterpoint to factory production during the Industrial Revolution, William Morris called for a revival of appreciation for handmade work.
Even more than 100 years later, his work continues to influence craftsmen and artists with its colorful and predominantly plant-inspired motifs.
Japanese allure
It is Japan, its natural beauty and culture, including the quality of textile processing and indigo coloring, that runs through all of my work like a red thread. In this spirit, I like to work with cotton and silk fabrics.
Used kimonos that I brought back from my travels are a great source. Only when I examined Japanese kimonos closely did I understand what perfect handmade work is.
It is Japan, its natural beauty and culture, including the quality of textile processing and indigo coloring, that runs through all of my work like a red thread. In this spirit, I like to work with cotton and silk fabrics.
Used kimonos that I brought back from my travels are a great source. Only when I examined Japanese kimonos closely did I understand what perfect handmade work is.
List of Exhibitions
I would like to introduce you to my exhibitions that I have been involved in over the past few years.
Since 2021, I have been exhibiting with the group Harmony in the Stitches.
From 2015 to 2019, I exhibited with the group TTT.
I have been exhibiting regularly at PPM since 2007.
PPM – Prague Patchwork Meeting
HiS – Harmony in the Stitches
TTT – Ten To Twelve
Contact
Feel free to contact me with any questions or interest in my work. I look forward to hearing from you!
© 2023 Monika Tilschová. All rights reserved.