Alternative Techniques Winner

Here is the second piece in the "Awesome Annual" collection.

This is Ruth Emmerson's entry into the Alternative Techniques category, and I must confess to not having noticed it before it was announced as the winner. I'm sure it must have been its placement in the branch display that made me not notice it as I walked around. Unfortunately, some of the displays were so crowded that it was impossible to see all the pieces - and you did notice different ones each time you walked around. A little more space around each one would definitely showcase it - but then we'd need a display area multiple times the size.

However, with this piece, once I knew of its existence, I couldn't take my eyes off it. It's absolutely incredible! Ruth has a real talent for realizing a concept in a way that is truly unique every time. Compare this to her cabbage from last year and you know what I mean.

The drama of this piece, combined with the sculptured hooking in the hands, is quite rapturous. The details in the hands are unbelievable. Ruth told me that it was part of an artist's exhibit titled "Reach for the Stars" and this was her submission. Amazing isn't it?

When you think of this piece compared to yesterday's, it truly demonstrates the breadth of not only of the talent in the hooking arena, but the diversity of styles and subject matter.

Had these two pieces both competed in the "Original" category, it would have been a monumental task to judge. And I'm pretty sure the judging was tough enough as it was.

I'll try to post another category tomorrow.