The Hearts of Mary

For a few years I was heavily invested in the wet cyanotype process for surface design. The cyanotype processed fabric is sprayed with water, a leaf or flower or some living plant life is laid on top, then put under glass and left out in the sun for several hours. The sun provides the change in color and the magic. When they are rinsed the design becomes more obvious. My technique was to use any and all leaves or flowers I could find. This is a perfect fit for me because most of my quilts have some relationship with nature. I love to be out in nature as that is where I find most of my inspiration and peace. The bleeding heart flower was a trial as you are never sure how any living organic being will transfer. That is the magic of the wet cyanotype process for me. Someone from France told me they refer to these flowers as The Hearts of Mary. Hence my title.