This morning I opened up a red, Mrs. Fields’ cookie tin to uncover a treasure trove of buttons. I spent close to an hour sifting through its contents, setting aside ones I’d like to use in my sewing projects and putting the rest back to return.
They were gifted to me by my good friend and Broadway Wardrobe Supervisor, Kathleen Gallagher. That’s her professional title, but I call her my Guardian Angel and Benefactor. She’s helped me a lot in the months since I’ve begun creating my penny rug pillows. This offering of buttons was one of a long list of generous contributions to my growing appreciation of having Kathy in my life. I’ve got Broadway level talent stitching my pillow fronts to their backs, and Kathy loves handling my designs.
She’s recommended places to shop for beads, threads, pillow inserts and most recently markers that produce inks that will disappear with water when I no longer need them. She’s given me an organizer, seam rippers, and dozens of needles she no longer uses. I look at these as winks from the Universe. I started in a new direction and have been met with enormous generosity at every turn.
As I sorted through Kathy’s stockpile from her theatre days, I pondered how those red and yellow elephant buttons may have been used on a costume. There were two small baggies of suspender buttons, a distinction I’d previously been unaware of, but got me curious. Why 
would you need a special button for that job? Mostly what this sorting process did was to bring me more deeply into my present moment, to spark my imagination, and to give me utter joy in the process.
One clear packet took my breath away. It was labeled “Pillowman” and contained backup buttons for costuming in the Broadway production from 2005. I got that close to something that may have been worn by Billy Crudup or Jeff Goldblum.
This is what art–and its components–stirs up. Memories, connections, feelings.
The first time I realized the link between creativity and emotion was when a college chum pointed to a square on the handmade patchwork skirt she was wearing and said, “This fabric was from my bridesmaid’s dresses, and this one was leftover from the swim trunks I made my husband.” I got goosebumps and my heart fluttered. I didn’t know then that a textile medium was in my future, but that feeling of wanting a tangible, visual, aesthetic experience was.
Any surprises for you today, or during these 8 months of quarantine, that have provided joy? I believe we all benefit when someone experiences and shares their joy.
Jane – I agree! It’s a wonderful feeling! I’ve been baking copious amounts of bread, mostly to give away to loved ones during this period. It’s tactile, dexterous and ‘homemade’. It’s like giving a ‘warm crusty hug’ during times of need, when you’re not allowed to hug! Also, for me, it touches all the senses – looks and tastes beautiful- fills the house with an aroma that provides a feeling of comfort – something we all need more of these days…it’s been a gift to me and others!
@Lynne It’s such a tangible and generous passion you’ve found. Wish I lived closer!! Even to just take in the aroma. Nothing like fresh bread baking. Thanks for commenting.
You’ve described “the pursuit of happiness,” as I’ve come to think of it lately; an interest in a topic and the practice of going deeper, learning more; that thirst for the next idea, experience, or button. Thank you for so generously sharing your pursuit – and the joy it’s brought. What would the world be like if everyone – everyone – had something in their lives like your new endeavor of artistic expression and creativity? What’s my equivalent? Hmmm…. Thank you, Jane!
@Barbara I couldn’t agree more. Too many of us are bound by others’ expectations or ‘shoulds’ and don’t have the opportunity or willingness to give their true calling a try. I feel very fortunate to be able to pursue my happiness. Thanks for writing!
I love your new project, Jane. The pillows are gorgeous! My joy is beekeeping. I added a new hive this year. Nancy Moon
@Nancy Like you, a lot of us have the time and space to explore latent or new passions. Your bee-keeping and honey-making are inspiring. Everything you touch has beauty.
I’m a friend of Kathleen’s through my sister in New York. I’m not too inclined to do sewing projects or other textile related projects but I certainly appreciate the sentiments expressed here in finding comfort and inspiration in creative projects
of all types, especially in using found treasures. It’s like finding great things in alleys or writing a poem that just magically comes to you during these fractured times. I would love to see the pillows you are creating, especially after watching the documentary about Hilma af Klint.
@Sue I’m working on my third Hilma series pillow and will post it as soon as it’s complete. I saw the exhibit of her work at the Guggenheim last year and was awestruck; also watched the documentary. What a visionary! Thank you for your comment.
Wonderful, give my love to Kathy