The Fabric of Nelson, Kate Bridger's new book, is now available in local stores and on Bridger's website.
Bridger, a local award-winning fabric artist has lived in Nelson for almost two decades. Her new book represents a collection of work stitched in and around Nelson since arriving here in 1994. Almost all of the pieces now hang on other people's walls but a few new pieces were created especially for this project. Each piece can take up to 60 hours to complete. The skillful rendering of details gives her work an almost painterly quality.
"Much of my time is spent selecting fabrics, cutting out tiny little pieces and then, eventually, freestyle machine stitching to bring dimension and definition to the work," says Bridger.
There are over 80 images in this compact little paperback — from iconic landmarks, like the orange bridge and the fire hall, to backyards, parades and forest walks.
"As I assembled work for the book, I was surprised by how prolific I've been over the past years. Many of the images in the book predate the digital era and are not quite as cleanly reproduced as the more recent work. But, I think this serves as a good reminder to us all about just how far technology has come in a relatively short time," comments Bridger.
"I tried to represent what I love most about Nelson. There is very little text because I think the pictures say it all," she adds.
The book is small, modestly priced and designed to appeal to locals, gift givers and tourists alike.
Production of this publication was sponsored in part by eight local organizations: Nelson and District Chamber of Commerce, Valhalla Path Realty, Prestige Lakeside Resort, Nelson and District Credit Union, Rel-ish Bistro, Snowpack, Dancing Bear Inn and Touchstones Nelson.
A book launch is planned for Thursday, December 5 at Touchstones Nelson with refreshments provided by Rel-ish Bistro. Some of Bridger's newest work will also be on display and for sale at this event. Everyone is welcome to attend!
To learn more about The Fabric of Nelson, visit Bridger's websites at katebridger.ca or redfernhouse.ca.