Moth & Butterfly Sculptures by Textile Artist Larysa Bernhardt
In this interview, I chat with textile artist Larysa Bernhardt from Blackwell, Missouri. Larysa is known for her stunning hand-crafted sculptures of moths and butterflies, many of which are made using vintage and hand-dyed fabric. To create her mystical creatures, Larysa collects textiles from around the world - each piece telling its own unique story.
Hi Larysa! Tell me about your background and where your creative journey began.
For as long as I can remember I’ve been sewing. My family on my mom’s side has this long lasting trait...in every generation two girls are born. One can sew anything. The other can’t replace a missing button but is good with math. I got a sewing gene. My sister got a well paid job.
How has your work shifted and evolved over the years?
I discovered many beautiful textiles I didn’t realize existed. It started with passion for antique and vintage style home decor and weekend trips hunting down beautiful timeworn objects. I found some needlepoints that had moth damage. Oh, the irony! What ended their life as a pillow brought them back into the spotlight as textile sculptures of Moths and Butterflies.
What inspired you to create 3D creatures, such as moths and butterflies, out of fabric?
As my collection of antique and vintage fabrics grew bigger my husband started teasing me about moths possibly getting into my stash. I kept thinking about it and one day, playing with a particularly damaged piece of tapestry, I thought - why not? That first one - I still have it - wasn’t exactly a work of art! But it showcased the beauty of the tapestry in a most magical way. I was hooked.
You use vintage fabric and tapestries in your work. How do your textile choices contribute to each creature?
The size of the pattern plays huge role. But mostly it is storytelling. I want every piece to tell it’s own story. Where it’s been, what it's seen. I find textiles in different countries, and when you get a parcel from, say, Turkey, and it smells of spices and strong coffee, well, you know there’s a story!
Can you share your process and technique, and the length of time it takes to create a finished piece?
Every piece is unique and takes a different amount of time. Sometimes fabric is worn and fibers need to be reinforced. Sometimes velvet that I use for the body looks too new and I dye it with flowers from my garden to give them a muted color that’s associated with time and sun exposure. I use new fabrics for bodies because that’s what holds it together and I want the body to be strong. Every detail is wired for gentle shaping. I don’t use glue, and I use raw cotton for stuffing. My pieces will last for centuries if kept dry and - well, away from moths!
When did you join Instagram, and how has it impacted your art career?
It’s been only three years, and I love the community. What people can create inspire me to be better at creating too. Being a visual thinker, Instagram is a platform for me. Also, when I loose my courage there’s always someone to give a shoulder and a leg up. People are much nicer than given credit. I can always count on my creative tribe to be there for me!
Follow Larysa on Instagram at: by_larysa_bernhardt
Website: www.etsy.com/shop/ByLarysaBernhardt