I have decided to create a vocal point on each of the pieces. I tried various methods to create the lacy effect of coral, including stitching in scrim and across an aperture. I started working in white thread and then painting it but the lace seemed to sink into the background and had little impact.
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I drew the 'stag' coral shape I required on acetate and then stitched the elements on soluble fabric.
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I made 2 layers of coral. The lower layer is stitched with dark pink as the top thread and purple in the bobbin. I stitched the top layer with dark pink on top and pale pink in the bobbin. The slightly different colour combinations enhanced the overall effect.
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The eye is now drawn to a vocal point on the lower embroidery.
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The middle embroidery is still work in progress. I have stitched a band of straight stitches through the piece, becoming erratic as the colour fades, to represent the bleaching of the coral. I will add coral polyps and 'stag' coral pieces in fading colours from pink, to grey to white.
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Straight stitches in disarray.
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The top piece is also work in progress. The straight stitches have become more uniform to show that coral reefs are able to adapt to rising sea temperatures and slowly recover.
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Detail of stitching.
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The 3 pieces laid out to show the progression of the design.
