Take Silk
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"He refers to this as my release valve." Glenys Rumble's digital story, made at Coleg Sir GΓΆr, a Capture Wales partner project.
Transcript
"As a teenager in the early 1950s, I liked ballroom dancing and would go twice a week as the Dance hall was only around the corner from where I lived.
As money was short and I liked sewing, I would make my own dresses and most of my other clothes. I would go to the market on a Saturday morning after work and I would buy a length of material and a pattern. Mrs. Price's stall was well known for bargains!
By the evening I had knocked up a dress to wear. I couldn't possibly wear the same dress two weeks running!
I wasn't particularly interested in art at that time; I was too busy enjoying myself... but I always had a good eye for colour co-ordination.
It wasn't until I retired from the nursing profession that I became interested in gardening, floral art and design. I wanted to learn more about these newfound interests.
I completed a City & Guilds course and at one of these workshops, I was introduced to painting on pure silk. I was hooked!
I joined a beginner's class. The group would paint silk scarves, cushions, pictures on wooden frames.
To progress further I joined another, more advanced, group. This group were interested in exhibiting their work... more advances techniques and workshops, taken by teachers with specialist knowledge. Every summer the group would hold an exhibition of their work at Aberglasney Gardens, Carmarthenshire.
The silk is produced in the Far East by the silk worm, feeding on mulberry leaves - different qualities, thickness and weaves are available for different purposes. Silk is a very strong fabric.
The vibrancy of the coloured paints on the silk is fascinating. The flora and fauna of the East is represented in the colour, very exotic!
The technique used to paint is very exacting - there's no room for error as it's difficult to camouflage on the silk. On completion - ironing, steaming or micro waving seals the silk depending on the technique used.
I'm caring for my severely disabled husband 24/7. My hobbies release me for some part of the day to do what gives me pleasure. I have to prioritise to have this time. This way I can care for him better.
I support two charities with whatever I sell. Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Association and Parkinson's Disease Society.
My husband was a British Rail Train Driver - he's quite right when he refers to this as my release valve."
