Inspiration from Vienna
I have always admitted that travel was a passion second only
to my needlepoint and that, over the years, many, many of my designs are
inspired by traditional designs, colours, architecture, all things that I have
been fortunate to see on my various travels.
On the following days we were treated to visits to many of
the museums – particularly the vast and very impressive Kunsthistorisches
Museum and the Belvedere with pleasant walks through the streets with their
impressive architecture. But another
highlight for me was to see many of the works by Gustav Klimt, so often
reproduced in posters, cards and of course, needlepoint; the richness of the apparel work by the
figures represented, the extensive use of gold leaf and his women wrapped in
furs are so sensuous they are a natural
for exciting stitching. But actually
seeing the paintings was far more exciting.
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| Private Tea Room With Group |
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| Sacher Torte |
Packing delights in, we went straight from the airport to
the Museum Hundertwasser, probably the most exciting and unique ‘village’ I
have ever seen. Friedensreich
Hundertwasser (1928 - 2000) was an artist architect and here is a cross section
of examples of his ecological commitment.
The floor tiles undulate as though there has just been volcanic action,
the furniture explodes with colour and his artwork (of which there are some
great postcards) are itching to be represented in needlepoint. Do take a look at some of his art on the web,
I hope you will share with my excitement. http://www.kunsthauswien.com/
On the following days we were treated to visits to many of
the museums – particularly the vast and very impressive Kunsthistorisches
Museum and the Belvedere with pleasant walks through the streets with their
impressive architecture. But another
highlight for me was to see many of the works by Gustav Klimt, so often
reproduced in posters, cards and of course, needlepoint; the richness of the apparel work by the
figures represented, the extensive use of gold leaf and his women wrapped in
furs are so sensuous they are a natural
for exciting stitching. But actually
seeing the paintings was far more exciting.
Again excellent web sites to visit for both the history
behind the man and examples of his work.
The two of his works that captivated me were the opportunity
to see his Beethoven Frieze, measuring over 34 meters in length and created in
1902 for a major group show. This mural
now is installed in the Secession exhibition space. The most famous Klimt is undeniably The Kiss which of course
is both beautiful and thought provoking;
standing in front of it one realises that while their bodies are
entwined her face is actually turned away – was she less enthusiastic, was she
simply tolerating his attention, questions, questions? However I do recommend, should you have the
chance, enjoy many of his other works, to me they are equally beautiful.
I find Short trips with a like-minded group and good guide are
lovely; I left wanting more, I
discovered the works by Egon Schiele, I understood how original paintings are
superior to reproductions and I came home anxious to reread ‘The Hare with the
Amber Eye’ and had made some new friends.
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