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Matisse Leaves, 18″ x 13″, #6-cut wool on linen. Designed and hooked by Wendy Radin, Peterborough, New Hampshire, 2024.
Four years ago, a rug-hooking friend convinced me to go to a rug-hooking workshop with her in Connecticut. I have a background in painting and black-and-white photography, but I had never hooked a rug before. I wanted to come up with my own design, so I looked through my photos for inspiration. I found a photo of a stained-glass window by Henri Matisse, taken during a trip to France. I loved the strong design and colors.
My friend gave me a piece of linen. I came up with my own design—inspired by Matisse’s window—in 15 minutes, then drew it on the linen. I was ready for the three-day workshop!
The result of my first foray into rug hooking was a small pillow. It took me quite a long time to complete, as I worked on it infrequently, but I am very happy with how it came out. I also completed a second pillow in my “Matisse Leaf Series.” I am now working on my third, but I’m not really sure I need any more pillows. Hopefully, I will improve and learn more from all the experienced rug hookers around me who are working on gorgeous, detailed, and inspiring rugs! WLRH
Wendy Radin is a painter, photographer, and—now—rug hooker. She enjoys working with very bright colors.