“OTC Illusions” ©2004

14” l x 11 ½” w

The central design was drawn on water soluble Romeo, placed on top of mosquito netting and embroidered. The nonembroidered parts were cut out and the entire piece was bordered.  The borders were made of 4 layers: fabric, mosquito net, batting, and another layer of fabric.  The ”holes” were satin stitched and then all layers cut away except the mosquito net.  The border was hand stitched with metallic thread.   Lastly, red fabric was stitched behind – not attached except at the edges, so that there is a 3 D effect from the embroidered parts.

“OTC” means over-the counter.  The piece was inspired by hallucinations that I experience when taking Ibuprofen and some other OTC meds.  The illusions refer both to my induced “illusions” and those of the medical and pharmaceutical professions who believe these OTC meds are safe.