Burse and Chalice Veil c. 1940

Syrena Swanson made this Burse and Chalice Veil, no date given, in a process of layering and stitching, an approach where each decision builds on the last. The color palette is really interesting, too – subtle pinks and greens are set against this neutral background. I’m struck by the texture of the piece. You can almost feel the soft give of the fabric, the way the threads catch the light. Swanson doesn’t try to hide the stitching; in fact, she celebrates it. Look at the way she uses the stitches to create a kind of quilting effect, adding depth and dimension to the surface. And those floral motifs! They’re so delicate and precise, like little jewels scattered across the fabric. Notice how the cross sits at the bottom of the piece, as if anchoring the design, but with such a subtle and understated presence. Swanson’s work reminds me of Gee’s Bend quilts, where everyday materials are transformed into these incredible works of art. Like those quilts, this piece is a testament to the power of craft and the beauty of the handmade. It’s a reminder that art can be found in the most unexpected places.