Rock Squares

Rock Square Series: Seeking Solace and Comfort in a Time of Isolation.

Started in 2020 using rocks as a metaphor for stability and security. Traditional handmade textile techniques as a connector from the past into the future, each square 12” x 12”.

During Covid I started a series of fiber pieces using rocks within a combination of handmade rug techniques, such as rug hooking and sewn work. Were we all not looking for our rock… a place that was stable, secure and safe?

I was moving and needed to downsize. The rocks I had collected I tossed in the woods, but wait why not use them? So out to the woods I went to gather up my rocks. I have currently made 48, going to 100. To see 39 of them please go to nyartistscircle.com/artists/tracy-jamar

#36 Rock Square

2024, 12” square, I made the small sweater in the mid 1970s with a full size vintage pattern from the 1940s using size 1 needles and vintage cotton crochet string… hence the stains. I had it hanging alone and thought it suited for a Rock Square. It is one of the few that has a meaning… it is an homage to Virginia Woolf. She walked into a river near her home with rocks in her pockets. The red behind the sweater is symbolic of a setting sun or halo.

#12 Rock Square

2020, 12” square, the lace like ring is a failed crocheted necklace… it hung like a damp washrag. I used fake flowers and plants that had fallen apart… I fully enjoy using things that might otherwise be tossed out.

#26 Rock Square

2023, 12” square, this was made shortly after a trip to Ireland with rocks I had collected in Kinsale on the Scilly Walk. I was told the arrangement was reminiscent of St. Brigid’s Cross, so it is, but totally not conscious of it in the making.

#35 Rock Square

2024, 12” square, this is another with a meaning. My late husband, Monty, loved doing the NYT crossword puzzles. I made beads of the puzzles, others have his handwriting in the squares (those I made into necklaces). I made many beads and it is happenstance that I found the two beads at the top that butted together to read New York Times.