As I conclude my time here at PAFA I’m left with three as-of-yet unfinished paintings and now one Minotaur doll. As I stashed my brushes and packed away much of my paints I found myself confronted with a large pile of very attractive paint- smeared studio rags. I was loathe to just toss them as they were so pretty .
So I took the logical step and made a rag doll- a first for me.
I immediately became calmer as I stitched away, listening to the radio and yesterday’s downpour . A cup of tea, Schubert and my dollmaking ; it was the most fun I’ve had since being here. I see stitchery being added to my studio practice, alongside painting, printmaking and puppet making.
My Minotaur looks handsome in front of my latest ( unfinished ) painting – I am enjoying this play of multi disciplines all going on at once. Supporting and inspiring one an another.
Boondocks Babylon 
Oh my stars! That is simply and totally marvelous. What a great way to finish up.
Oh Rosa, I love that you like him, he is quite fun and just evolved by himself! Effortless really .
I think you are on to something with your adventures in dollmaking Leonard. I would call what you have done textile art. You have created a real character with your Minotaur and working in 3D brings a really interesting dimension to your work. I especially like how he has been created from your paint-smeared studio rags. I will be intrigued to see what other characters might emerge, as an adjunct to your painting. I wish you a safe journey home.
Thank you Sarah,
I’ve really enjoyed just the making. Now I want to walk around town carrying him in my arms like some perverse Madonna!
I’m delighted you like him .
Lg
Just fab! He looks like he’s always been there, or he just grew, so I’m not surprised to read how he just evolved effortlessly. Bravo Leonard, and I do hope you carry on these explorations and make textile work, or 3D work a part of your practice, you look like a master already. Those Hero twins you made were awesome too, your art seems to lend itself to 3D figures 🙂
I’m realizing that , that and a performative element of some sort . I have to process but I feel excited by it all. Thanks , I’m happy you like him!