Friday, September 28, 2012

Hardanger - A Yei Interpretation

This is my current project, inspired by Navajo rugs. These intriguing rugs are strongly representative of the Navajo culture. A 'Yei' is a supernatural holy person who communicates between the Navajo and their gods. Navajo ceremonials center on on a desire for healing, not only physical health but also mental, emotional, spiritual, and even material well-being. These holy people are believed to restore health when called upon in a properly conducted ceremony. (from A Guide To Navajo Rugs, written by Susan Lamb.)





I am combining Hardanger with embroidery. The fabric is 28 or 32 Belfast Linen. No, it isn't evenweave...I didn't have any. The threads are varied, including Pearl Cotton 8 and 12 and also coton a broder 25 which is what I can get over here. I also plan to have some beading. Of course, the Hardanger cutting and finishing along with the beading will be the last I do.  This is my own design. I've been working on it for months in my mind, on paper and also on model samples.

I don't think there is any right or wrong when depicting a Yei.  I have drawn inspiration from many samples.  If you want to see more, there are hundreds of Yei images available.  Let me know what you think!