Cheryl Berglund

Needle Felting

My interest in the artisans from cultures around the world inspired me to immerse myself in art. I found I loved fiber, a medium that is natural, sustainable—and portable. My Grandmother trees were inspired by a cedar grove where I walked, gratefully receiving wisdom and healing, gifts from the “Standing People.” I offer my Grandmothers in gratitude of the gifts of each day, not the least of which is the air we breathe because of them. As a 40-year-old mother, I had the privilege of studying with two of America’s most respected clay artists, Robert Sperry and Patti Warashina at the University of Washington. I was influenced by the shapes of the Southwest Indian potters and the designs of the Pacific Northwest coastal tribes. I grew up on the shores of Puget Sound and share the reverence these people have for our Mother Earth. I have chosen the majestic Grandmothers of our forests as my clan, my tribe. It was to them that I turned when my daughter was taken from us by cancer. One day I found a bit of joy watching a U Tube video of needle-felted, celebrity-look a-like-dolls racing in remote controlled cars, and peeking out from behind trees and rocks. These amazing characters were created by the fiber artist, Kay Petal.  I use driftwood sticks to support the tree trunks, and river rocks or driftwood as bases. Wire armature forms the branches, and the fibers are of sheep and alpaca.

Needle Felted "Grandmother"
Needle Felted "Grandmother"
Needle Felted "Grandmother"
Needle Felted "Grandmother"
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