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Irene Reed works primarily in crochet, but it is not what most people expect to see. Irene invented her own technique for working in this medium by crocheting on top of trapunto quilting. She starts out with an idea and begins by translating that idea into a two-dimensional quilted piece. She then fills in each section by crocheting with various colors of pearl cotton and metallic threads. Usually she backs the pieces with lining and then constructs a three-dimensional object by crocheting the sections together. Ms. Reed makes each and every piece and every part. She often uses some interesting found objects in the construction. Irene feels her work is an ongoing thought process and keeps to a diligent work schedule. She feels so connected to each piece that it is almost like "I am a continuation of that piece". "I am intensely interested in the technical construction and find myself discovering new techniques even though I have been crocheting since I was five years old." Irene says she is drawn to imagery that is at the same time playful and secretly serious. "It is a serious business trying to make a living by making art. I am one with my work. It flows from an inner drive to make tangible the innermost imaginings of my mind." Since Irene allows each piece to progress in the way it wants to it is often a surprise to her when the final product emerges. "I think that is what keeps it so exciting for me."
Tell us about yourself and your art.My mother taught me as a little girl, back in the 70', to do a chain stitch. I was interested in art and saw what some people were doing with crochet, making sculptural pieces. When I started doing sculpture pieces 30 years ago, they were not too colorful. I used bigger yarns and then moved from sculptural pieces to headdresses. I did those for quite a few years. Some had buildings on top of them and domes. I did a special woolen hat with crocheted goggles. I was able to support myself - I sold thousands, which kept me busy. Then I started doing sculptural containers - one was a Chrysler car with the Chrysler dome on top of it. The dome flipped over and opened up. Another was a Chinese take out container. These were probably the segue to my handbags and I started incorporating fabric. Now I am going back to the all crocheted ones, like teapots and shoes, and I am still trying to think of my next body of work.
Where can your work be seen?
Locally, Japanalia in West Hartford, Zoe and Floyd in Seymour, as well as galleries throughout the country.
Irene Reed can be reached in her Hartford studio at 860-525-1065. Prices range from $20.00 to $800.00.