The Found Object in Textile Art

by Cas Holmes

• Taps into one of the most popular textile trends today: the use of the found object
• Author is one of the UK's leading textile artists
• Contains a wealth of techniques and inspiration
• Illustrated with the best textile art from around the world

Textile artists have always used found objects, both for decoration and to imbue their work with meaning, and recently the practice has become even more popular. Cas Holmes is renowned for her use of 'the found', and her many-layered, atmospheric pieces have been shown around the world.

The practice differs from recycling in that the objects often remain 'themselves' when they are incorporated into the work. The work is often conceived and built around the found object. The definition 'found object' can include a wide range of objects, from natural materials such as driftwood and leaves to old bits of machinery and vintage fabrics. Mundane objects such as CD cases can be used to create stunning pieces of art, or more sentimental items such as old jewellery can lend deep meaning to a work. This book contains a wealth of techniques and inspiration for incorporating found objects into your textile work.

ISBN 13 9781906388461
Price £19.99
Publication date 20 September 2010

Hardback 128 pages with 110 illustrations
276 x 216 mm, 10.87 x 8.50 in

Reviews

Cas Holmes's book, The Found Object in Textile Art, is a great contribution to the fields of art and surface design.

Beautifully illustrated throughout and easy to follow, Cas gives many personal insights to her art practice and philosophy, professional techniques and tips.

I highly recommend this book which is a 'must have' reference for every textile artist's library.

Marie-Therese, Art Quill Studio, Australia
artquill.blogspot.com

In her introduction the artist writes "The ideas, processes and methods contained in this book are intended to act as a stimulus for the textile artists who like to use found materials as part of their experimental working practice". Indeed, once you start flipping through the pages of this book you'll find it hard not to look at everything from the contents of the recycle bins to old textiles, coffee filters and other seemingly mundane every day objects as a potential art supply.

The book opens with an overview of processes and methods using paint, ink and dye along with found natural and man made objects to create marks on the surface of paper and fabric. This chapter gives the reader a library of potential techniques and ideas to refer to when considering how to alter the surface that they're working with. The second chapter gives advice on where to search for found objects, how to recycle previous materials and gives the reader a guide on sorting found textiles and papers . You'll also find ieas for presenting work with a section on creating unusual frames for displaying the finished art work. The author also discusses working with found containers and boxes, altered books and provides directions on creating simple journals from folded paper. The "Magpie of the Mind" chapter talks about observation and recording as a way to inspire your creative muse. Using the camera, keeping a sketchbook, elements of design and a discussion on Notan are followed by some helpful advice on what to do if you feel stuck or uninspired. Finally the book closes with a chapter on Sharing and how teaching and working with the community can help enrich the artistic process.

This book does not contain any step by step projects. You won't find directions for recreating any of the beautiful pieces showcased in this book. It is meant to be a guide and source of inspiration for those who want to incorporate found or recycled materials into their artwork and stretch their mixed media wings.

Sue Bleiweiss
www.suebleiweiss.com