Vintage Josephine 26.5" x 30"

This series is rooted deeply in the rich heritage of vintage Americana fabrics and traditional techniques. With this piece, I wanted to delve even further into those themes, exploring how history, material, and craft intersect. It marks a first for me: incorporating a genuine vintage frame into my work.

My inspiration surged after participating in the Round Top shows over the past few years, immersing myself in a world filled with antiques and vintage textiles. Every visit fuels my creative process, but it was during a trip to an old mill turned antique market in Charlotte that I stumbled upon a treasure—several vintage picture frames, each telling its own story. Instantly, I saw their potential to revolutionize the visual impact of my pieces.

The frame I selected is truly exceptional—one of a kind. Crafted during a time when frames were meticulously built from solid wood, it bears the authentic wear, patina, and character of a true antique. Its aged surface and intricate craftsmanship offered a unique canvas, inspiring me to reverse the typical process: instead of creating art first and then selecting a frame, I chose the frame first, then designed the piece to complement and enhance its history and character.

For the background, I repurposed the lining from a vintage army jacket—a fabric of resilience and history, deconstructed and reborn. The nylon material, dressed in characteristic army green, served as a perfect canvas for embroidery. I embroidered a horse directly into the fabric with wool thread, adding texture and dimension to an already layered piece. Once completed, the fabric was carefully wrapped around a rigid board and mounted within the frame, allowing for display with or without glass, depending on personal preference.

What makes this piece truly special is not only its narrative but also its presentation—the singular frame elevates the entire work, making it a true one-of-a-kind artifact of vintage Americana, reimagined through craftsmanship and storytelling. This piece exemplifies how embracing history and unconventional materials can lead to innovative artistry.

Vintage Frame

2025