Mixed Media Assemblage ~ Thai Buddha
Mixed Media Assemblage ~ Thai Buddha
I am always searching for vintage images of exotic and interesting women, so when I saw this old postcard featuring the opera star Cleo de Merode in traditional dress from Thailand (formerly Siam), I knew I would have to use it in a mixed media assemblage. Although the photograph was black and white, I used colored pencils to add a bit of color.The architectural features above de Merode’s head are based on Buddhist temples in Thailand. I made the beaded fringe using gold and glass beads. The small niche contains an iridescent vintage cabochon, the columns are covered with ivory paper covered with gold marbling, and accents of gold paper trim are used throughout the book.
The relic is a miniature bronze Thai Buddha. I purchased it from a man who sent me this note: “The Buddha is depicted holding a lotus flower which is an important symbol in Buddhist iconography, representing the possibility of spiritual purity in an impure world. Out of the muck and dirty water, the lotus grows and produces a perfect beautiful flower.” Thank you, Andrew. The Buddha is sitting on a cushion of sheer green fabric in its own little shrine. Above its head are glass stones and a gold metallic flower with a green rhinestone center.
The cover of the book is covered with handmade paper that has been embellished with glitter and wrapped with green trim. In the center hangs a large chandelier crystal between two rhinestone and gold floral pieces.
