Posted on 12th May 2010 @ 5:17 PM

Just over a month ago I completed the final proof-reading of STUMPWORK & GOLDWORK EMBROIDERY inspired by Turkish, Syrian & Persian Tiles. This new book looks very different from my previous volumes, and I have to say that I am delighted with the design and photography.  The research and embroidery involved in creating the sixteen projects for this book has been a joy - I have revelled in the opportunity to indulge a passion of mine since childhood - combining jewel-like colours, gold metallic threads and glittering beads.  Each design has been inspired by an example of Islamic art - pottery, textiles, manuscripts or jewellery - from Turkey, Syria, Persia, Arabia or Mughal India.

I am often asked about the source of my designs - where do the ideas come from?  In this instance, it is the accumulation of a lifetime's fascination with "things exotic" - from the Tales of the Arabian Nights (Sinbad, Aladdin, Ali Baba) as a child, to the discovery of the world of Diaghilev and his Ballets Russes at exhibitions held at the National Gallery of Australia - all gathered into the ever-expanding collection of books, catalogues, cuttings, postcards and photographs that make up my "ideas journals". 

I am indeed fortunate to have also had the opportunity to travel to such magical places as India, Morocco and Turkey with my daughter, Katie.  It has been a privilege to experience, first hand, many of the wonders of Islamic art.  I look forward to sharing my explorations in June when this volume should be on the shelves!

Jane