Fluegge, Claudia

I was born and raised in Hamburg Germany.Most of my art education I received in England, taking the standard art exams. In my early adult years I was living in Germany, studying socialwork and child development. In the 90’s I moved to the United States and started a family. It was not till my children were in school, did art become my main focus again. I became deeply fascinated with painting on silk and fell in love with the vibrant colors and the silk’s shiny texture and flow.
My silk work is primarily inspired by the beauty of nature, such as the inside of a flower or the beam of light between rock formations. Every second can change this appearance entirely. I endeavor to blend nature’s most precious moments with my own imagination; silk is an ideal medium for this interactive play. Since I was first introduced to silk painting, I have developed my own style and designs and continue to teach myself.
I employ a variety of techniques to create my silk art. The most commonly known method I use is the Serti technique. A resist is used to outline the design and confine the dye. I apply liquid acid dyes with a brush onto the silk, stretched over a frame. It is not until the piece has been steam-set, that the colors become permanent. The process can be quite lengthy but rewarding.
I have many possibilities to use my creative skills to take a painted piece to its final form. Whether I create wall pieces, garments, accessories, or a three-dimensional work, I feel a sense of fulfillment, to have the privilege to conduct the whole process.