Artist Access Grant

I propose to create an entire woman's outfit appropriate to the early 1740s in colonial America, in order to a) attempt to express the reality of a person of the era (why did they wear that/design it that way/use that technique or material, etc.), b) further explore the development of shaping and decorating practical coverings for the female human form, from a technical and aesthetic standpoint, c) develop and perfect the unique hand sewing and crewelwork techniques required by this specific time period, and d) demonstrate and contrast to earlier and later periods to share the historical and artistic knowledge I have gained. I intend to create both the intimate and public parts of the ensemble. The result will be a physical manifestation, able to be modeled for or experienced directly (worn) by others. This three dimensional presentation will aid the understanding and appreciation of both the practicalities and the whimsies of actual people who lived in various periods. The success of this project will be measured by: 1. The full hand sewn creation of the following garments: an18th century mantua, with required undergarments and accessories (shift, stays, jump, pockets, under petticoat, petticoat, stomacher, mantua, neckerchief, cap, and apron) based on mastery of 18th century pattern draping and hand sewing techniques 2. Development of familiarity with the materials, motifs, and techniques of 18th century crewelwork required to create several examples of crewel-decorated appointments (jump, pockets, stomacher) 3. Development of the understanding required to provided demonstration and discussion to North Shore Artist's League members by May, 2022 4. Participation in two exhibitions: at Joy and Co.'s Tenacious Women Exhibit in early 2022 and at the Johnson Heritage Post in mid 2022