Unframed Tapestry

This hand-stitched tapestry created by Irene Tushabe, Threads of Blessing artist, measures 10 x 6.5 inches. The uncomplicated presentation of this lovely portrait of a tiger is its strength. Lying in a field of flowers, the tiger is front and center. Warm colors and details are reserved for the tiger, and layering him on a predominantly cool color palette makes him the star. French knots and bright colors bring the small individual flowers to life.

While Irene's composition is visually uncomplicated, the large swaths of color articulating the grass, hills and the sky are anything but simple. On closer examination, Irene stitches thousands of tiny stitches in different directions and uses subtle color changes to paint these areas with thread.

Irene lives in Kampala, the capital of Uganda.  

She will use the funds she receives for her needlework to provide education for her children, medical support for herself and her family, seeds or fertilizer for her crops, repairs to her home, and care for the orphans for whom she cares as a result of poverty, HIV/AIDS or other illnesses.

Irene meets weekly with her fellow needleworkers.  The community they have built through Threads of Blessing encourages each of them and has significantly boosted their self-confidence.