NEW HOME FOR DRAGONFLIES
If you ask a range of artists, artisans and craftspeople why they make things and create, you would obviously get a whole range of replies.
Most of the answers would probably have something to do with the personal satisfaction gained from creating. Many would tell you that the process is actually more important than the end product, because it engages a very special part of your being, and can free you from the stresses and pressures of the normal daily routine. Some fortunate and gifted artists may even tell you that they can earn an income from their creations. But most will tell you that other forms of feedback are important too, such as compliments and admiration from others.
One very special project I embarked on about five years ago was the Dragonfly Round Robin.

There was a group of about 6 or 7 of us - most of the others were New Zealand girls, I think. We each created a base piece, and sent it arounds to all the others, with each person adding a dragonfly and other embellishments.I planned my piece in a hexagon shape, a reminder of the "fly's eye". Some of my patches had silhouettes of a dragonfly, using the sunprinting technique.
When the piece eventually returned, it had a wonderful array of dragonflies. I made it into a cushion, using some lovely dragonfly fabric for the frill.
Now the cushion was not really suited to putting in our lounge room along with cats, dogs and small children. I do not usually display preciousness about this sort of thing, because I believe most things are meant to be enjoyed by young and old. But the dragonfly cushion has lots of fiddly little bits and embellishments that would not stand up to normal wear and tear.

So it has remained on a couch in our bedroom ever since. There, I have been able to look at it and take pleasure in it, but no one else. Oh yes, my DH has probably seen it, but I doubt that he has often actually looked at it, if you know what I mean.
So when I put it into a patchwork display at our local Community Arts Exhibition, and Donna admired it, I had no hesitation in telling her I would give it to her. My cushion had found a home where it would be wanted and loved!
Donna's daughter Ashley sent me some photos of it, because I only had one.
Here is the dragonfly cushion in its new home!