I have been working on this project for about a year now. Coming from a background in fashion design, my new limited edition scarf collection is a natural creative evolution of my fine art practice and a way to experience my paintings in a very personal way.
I began wearing scarves in earnest in 2006 after I had thyroid surgery and sported a nasty Frankenstien like scar across my throat. I could be wearing a tee shirt or simple sweater with a scarf, (to cover the scar), and people would remark on how polished I looked. I was hooked, it took nothing the throw on a scarf, and I was good to go practically anywhere and look great! (Scarves are also fun to collect…).
In my painting practice, I’ve worked to capture the spiritual stillness, luminosity of the landscape and the contented, awestruck feeling I often get from being out in nature. Translating those ideas into textile form has opened a new dialogue between material and meaning – between the art that hangs on a wall and the art that moves through the world with you. Wearable Art.
The inaugural collection features three images, each interpreted from one of my paintings:
Silver Road, (Above).
A meditation of reflection and quiet strength, its dusky deep blue tones suggest the peaceful calm that follows a storm. This is amazing with any shade of denim yet it’s sophistication lies in the soft pattern of the clouds and can be dressed up or down. I have always loved menswear and this one was selected to round out my collection to appeal to men as well as women.
Janes Sunset Addiction, (Above).
An immersion in color and energy – the sky at its most alive. In cashmere, silk and wool challis, the brushwork is as fluid as the drape of the fabric. Blending from Pink to purple to a stunning red, it is fabulous to wrap as you can play up one side or the other and get a full color pop with whatever you are wearing.
Above Us Only Sky, (Above).
Based on John Lennon’s iconic song, “Imagine”, it is a study in openness, air and dimensions that we feel but maybe cannot see. Wrap yourself in gradations of blue and violet or wrap to the bright red side depending on your mood. The refined cloth drifts and breaths like the atmosphere itself as it softly envelops you.
Each piece is produced in Como, Italy, where artisans have perfected the art of luxury textile making for generations. Woven in a sumptuous blend of cashmere, silk and wool, each scarf measures a luxurious 55″ x 78″ and is finished with a delicate fringe on all sides. The penetration of the printed colors is practically indiscernible from the face to the inside so it is easy to wrap and you will always look great. The result is a piece of wearable art that merges craftsmanship, elegance and the essence of my original paintings. The price per scarf is $495.00 + Shipping. Reply below or email me to order at cynthia.mcloughlin@gmail.com. They will also be for sale in the Summit Gallery in December if you want to try one on, just in time for the holiday season!
My hope is that these scarves allow my collectors to experience my works in a new, intimate way, one that brings the spirit of landscape and light into daily life.
With gratitude,
Cynthia