Some people write down their dreams in an attempt to plumb the subconscious and gain a better understanding of themselves. Artist Janet Leszczynski translates her dream world into intricate stitchery. She uses thread, as a painter would use a brush, to create colors and images that surface from deep inside.
Two eyes might be floating in space, doors open and often a hand reaches out, about to touch. ”The hand-it means my reaching spirit,” she said. ”I`m interested in symbolism.”
Leszczynski is a weaver who began stitching about 12 years ago. ”I had been feeling held back by structure, ”but my work in stitching is flowing; I can make gentle transitions.”
Her pieces, which recently have appeared in several national arts magazines, are small, usually about 2 inches square. Each one takes 60 to 100 hours, and prices range from $650 to $1,000, she said.
Athough all would like to have sweet dreams, there usually is a dark side.
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”It might be subtle, but there`s always some black,” she said. ”We have to give recognition to the darker side (of the subconscious).”
Leszczynski teaches textile design at Rosary College, River Forest, and some of her work will be shown at the Textile Art Center, 916 W. Diversey Pkwy., in November. Call 312-327-0601.