HIT – Historically Informed Tatting (today’s a bit of a
rant)
I am doubly motivated to pursue designing in tatting that is
historically informed.
1. I am the Queen of Repurpose. If I can find another use
for something, I will. This leads to boxes and boxes of bits of thread, pieces
of paper, pretty bags and boxes, etc. Mighty convenient I live in a Historic
home.
2. I look to the past in my music. Those who do not consider
how music has been written/performed/composed in the past are doomed to repeat
mistakes. Unlike several of my older colleagues, I do not pursue historic
performance for the sake of historic performance. I am content to play using
current instruments with current knowledge. I just like to fill the air with
beautiful sound.
So, when I design in tatting, I spend a good deal of time
trying to find out what others have done with the kernel of idea that I came up
with. How have tatters created lace based on 8 repeating rings or motifs? I am
constantly asking tatters who have extensive libraries if a design idea I’m
working on has appeared before. And, I’m always trying to recreate lace I see
in pictures or museums or antique shops.
(Here’s the primary rant)
HIT is important. We must honor those who have tatted before
us with the respect as graciously as possible. Innovation is important. But, how
many of us twitch and have wide open eyes in surprise when an instrument other
than a clarinet opens our favorite Gershwin tune?
All this is my way of following in Jane’s footsteps, Georgia’s
footsteps, and others; justifying why I don’t have a ton of designs posted, or
pictures every single day; spending hours in museums and looking through books;
innovating in (I hope) a historically respectful, creative way.
‘nuff said. I’ll go to the corner and pick up my shuttles.
After a cuppa. Join me? There’s enough hot water here for a
ton of people.
