Every artist’s journey begins with a step into the unknown, a leap of faith into uncharted waters. For me, that leap took the form of a Bunker Hill Church quilled portrait — a project that laid the foundation for my subsequent architectural masterpieces. Join me as I share the story of my humble beginnings and how this iconic church inspired my passion for quilled house portraits.
Discovering a New Passion
In the early days of my quilling journey, I was navigating uncharted territory. My fingers danced with paper strips as I experimented with various techniques and styles. It was during this phase that I decided to create a paper portrait of the Bunker Hill Church, a historic treasure located just a stone’s throw from my home. Little did I know that this seemingly simple project would open the door to a world of creativity and inspiration.
Exploring Quilled Architecture
The Bunker Hill Church holds a special place in my heart, not only because of its historical significance but also because of the memories associated with it. As I embarked on this quilling adventure, I found myself delving into the intricacies of architectural details—the delicate curves of windows, the precise angles of the roof, and the captivating essence of the structure. It was both exhilarating and challenging, a test of my newfound quilling skills.
The church, accompanied by an adjacent grange hall, stood as a testament to the rich history of our region. But it wasn’t just about replicating the building’s physical form; it was about capturing the essence of the place—the stories whispered by the walls, the echoes of laughter that once filled the halls, and the timeless beauty that stood steadfast through the years.
An Overlook to Remember
The Bunker Hill Church isn’t just an architectural wonder; it’s also surrounded by natural beauty that takes your breath away. Across the road lies an overlook—a spot that draws locals and tourists alike. From this vantage point, the panoramic view of Damariscotta Lake unfolds in all its glory. The sunrises paint the sky in hues of gold and pink, while on clear days, the distant silhouette of the Camden Hills graces the horizon.
It was on this very overlook that my journey as an artist reached a new pinnacle—I got married there. The Bunker Hill Church and its surroundings became not just a subject for my art but also a symbol of the love and memories that have shaped my life.
A Stepping Stone to Mastery
Looking back at that initial project, I see it as a stepping stone—a crucial moment that laid the foundation for my growth as an artist. While my skills have evolved since that beginner’s phase, the lessons I learned from quilling the Bunker Hill Church remain etched in my mind. The experience taught me patience, attention to detail, and the significance of infusing each piece with emotions and memories.
As I continued on my artistic journey, I found myself exploring more architectural portraits—each building holding its own stories and significance. From capturing historic homes to iconic landmarks, I realized that every structure has a unique personality waiting to be translated into paper.
The Bunker Hill Church project wasn’t just about quilling a building; it was about capturing the soul of a place that holds a special place in my heart. It marked the beginning of my foray into quilled architecture and ignited a passion that continues to burn brightly. As I reflect on that humble beginning, I’m filled with gratitude for the lessons learned and the experiences gained. The Bunker Hill Church remains not just a subject of my art but a reminder of the journey that began with a leap of faith and continues to evolve with each quill stroke.
