Chosen Family Bandanas

(2023)

These bandanas consist of illustrative linework, done in black ink, composed within a square. The illustrations depict sentimental objects and ephemera that root from significant memories shared with chosen family members. A double-ended candle is consistent throughout all four sides of the composition; creating a sense of grounded imagery for these objects to surround. The choice to use this symbol stems from a yearning to add additional meaning to its metaphor; a balance of positive association with the well-known negative. In the center of the bandana there is a circle of leaves and debris that represents a ‘queer-ring of friendship’, from a moment we wish we could freeze in time. Other objects include charms, a crab eye, lobster claw, “Algiz” (protection rune) bead, incense tray with a burning stick, evil eye amulet, seeds, house keys, amethyst crystal, lucky rabbit foot, tooth, shells, four leaf clover coin, ‘the couch’ rock from Point Pleasant Park, moo crew patch (by A.E.), dragon fly wing found in a river in 2019, pom-pom covered stick, a stick with a blown up wine bag attatched to it, cow bell, may fly, stump, cloves, spell bottle, as well as the numbers “22” and “33”. The fabric these are printed with are 100% cotton (a combination of unbleached, mercerized, and muslin) that has been dyed through both chemical and natural dye processes.

Each bandana within this series is sewn together with red thread (Red String of Fate Theory); further symbolizing the interconnectedness that exists within this family of queer platonic soulmates.  

The symbolism and imagery I used stem from objects my friends and I have held closely; whether they’re found objects, hand-made, store bought, thrifted, or natural objects found on outings. I wanted to create a curated collection of sentimental objects with a desire to showcase something like a ‘curio set’. When brainstorming different ways I could represent ‘chosen family’ I knew I didn’t want to create a direct replication of our faces, rather, objects that represent us and our connection. When thinking about the origins of bandanas as well as their significance in Queer History, I knew I needed to pay homage to how important they are in representing identity. The symbolism I reference each tell a tale, and in a way hold an identity of their own. For example, the house keys represent the trust that comes from making key copies and either gifting them, and/or borrowing them when folks are away to help take care of their pets and plants.  

Process

To begin this process, I started brainstorming both a visual mind map and a written mind map. For the visual brainstorming I drew out the content that I wanted to include, as well as imagery placement based off the alignment structure of the screen I had. For the written brainstorming, I labelled the objects with key words to signify their meaning, as well as possible functions and their coordinate directions in a notebook. I found that this allowed me to go into my design with a clear game plan. I did a ‘final’ drawing in pencil within a sketchbook, then went over the pencil with Copic markers and a China Marker to shade. I took that drawing and scanned it into photoshop, where I then digitized it and printed it in the photo department at NSCAD U with their large Canon acetate printer.  

For my dye process I wanted to play with both natural and chemical results; I used Rit dye at home with a combination of salt and near boiling water and soaked them for 40 minutes. For natural dyes I used Quebracho (tree bark) and Lac (insect) with my pal Alex Bateman. I made test strips with pre-washed fabric (100% cotton) to see their results beforehand. For the Rit dye experiments I had a craving to play around with pigment intensity, so I made a bath that was well-mixed and as fabric was being submerged I dropped raw dye on top to make more pigmented areas. 

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Tying the Knot (Handmade Quilt)

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A Document of Labour