Creating art has always been a way for me to express my creativity and emotions. Over the years, I’ve embarked on various artistic journeys, each piece telling a unique story. One such piece is this quilled scrollwork heart in a deep red hue, meticulously crafted from dense scrollwork. The heart was split into two distinct pieces – top and bottom – with the space in between designed to hold the names of those who held a special place in my heart. However, despite my intentions, the heart remains unfinished, a testament to the ebb and flow of artistic inspiration.

The concept behind the quilled red heart was simple. I wanted to create a symbolic representation of love, encapsulating the bonds that connect us to the people who matter most. Splitting the heart into two pieces – top and bottom – was a visual metaphor for the idea that love has the power to unite even when circumstances or distances keep us physically apart.

The space between the split heart was designed to hold the names of those who held significance in my life. The very act of quilling each scroll was an expression of appreciation, a gesture that represented the time, effort, and care that I felt for these individuals.

Over time, the heart joined a tote filled with forgotten and unwanted artwork. It became a silent witness to my artistic journey, a reminder that not all creations reach completion and that some pieces hold a unique space in the narrative of unfinished works.

In the spirit of sharing the journey, I’ve included a video that captures the moments of creation behind the quilled red heart. It’s a glimpse into the process, the careful coiling of paper strips, and the dedication that went into shaping the heart’s scrollwork form. While the heart may remain incomplete, the video serves as a testament to the effort and passion that went into its beginnings.

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Hello, dear readers. Today, I invite you to join me on a journey through the creation of a paper quilled artwork that holds profound meaning and symbolism—the iconic Dissent Collar worn by the legendary Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. As I share the story behind my quilled dissent collar, you’ll discover the inspiration, dedication, and emotions that went into crafting this tribute to a remarkable woman who championed justice and equality.

The Inspiration: A Loss Felt Deeply

The spark of inspiration for this quilled artwork came as I, like many others, grappled with the devastating loss of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Her passing marked not only the end of an era but also the loss of a powerful, principled voice for equality and justice. I, like countless others, felt a profound sadness and concern for the future.

The Dissent Collar: A Symbol of Strength

Justice Ginsburg was known for her principled dissents on the Supreme Court, and her collars became symbols of her strength and unwavering commitment to justice. One particular collar she mentioned in interviews—an embellished bib necklace—caught my eye. I knew it was the perfect inspiration for my quilled tribute.

Crafting the Collar

Creating a wearable-looking piece of jewelry entirely out of paper was no small feat. Each quilled coil was carefully shaped and arranged to mimic the intricate design of the Dissent Collar. The process was not just about precision; it was about infusing the artwork with the spirit and determination that Justice Ginsburg embodied throughout her life.

Embodying Her Legacy

As I meticulously coiled and shaped paper strips, I reflected on the legacy of Justice Ginsburg. Her tireless fight for gender equality, her dedication to justice, and her unwavering belief in the power of dissent were values that resonated deeply with me. This quilled artwork wasn’t just a tribute; it was an embodiment of her enduring legacy.

A Reminder of Her Resilience

The Dissent Collar, with its bold presence and intricate details, was more than just an accessory—it was a symbol of resilience. Justice Ginsburg faced countless challenges and obstacles in her career, yet she never wavered in her pursuit of justice. The quilled collar served as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can stand strong.

The Weight of Loss

Justice Ginsburg’s passing weighed heavily on my heart as I crafted this tribute. I couldn’t help but think of the impact her absence would have on the Supreme Court and the future of women’s rights, healthcare, and equality in the United States. The worst imaginings I had during the creation of this piece would soon become a harsh reality.

A Republican Hellscape

In the wake of her passing, the Supreme Court’s balance shifted, and the fears I held while creating this artwork materialized. Our nation, once a beacon of hope and progress, has descending into a Republican Hellscape, where women’s rights, education, and healthcare are vanishing.

The Struggle Continues

Justice Ginsburg fought tirelessly for a more just and equitable society, and her legacy continues to inspire. While the current state of our country may be disheartening, we must remember that the struggle for justice and equality is ongoing. It is a fight that demands our unwavering commitment.

A Tribute to Her Memory

This quilled Dissent Collar serves as a tribute to the memory of a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to the pursuit of justice. It is a reminder that her voice may be silenced, but her impact endures. It is a symbol of our collective responsibility to continue the work she started.

In Conclusion

Creating this paper quilled tribute to Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg was a journey of emotion, dedication, and reflection. It allowed me to pay homage to a woman whose impact on our society was immeasurable. It served as a reminder that art has the power to convey emotions, preserve memories, and inspire action.

Thank you for joining me on this heartfelt journey of tribute and reflection. Until next time, may we all carry forward the legacy of Justice Ginsburg, standing up for justice, equality, and the principles she held dear.

Stacy

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