It was 1972 and a young half Mexican, half Swedish woman was expecting her first child. Her new husband was a carpenter and they lived in a house with two other families right off of Sacramento St. in Oakland, California. They had converted the garage into a wood-shop and the house always smelled of lentils and nag champa. The young woman, Katarina had learned to weave from her grandmother. Now that she was 37 weeks along and on leave from her teaching job, she weaved all day long to keep busy. Late one evening after spending most of the day making the perfect pom-poms, Katarina went into labor and, much to her surprise gave birth to not one, but two little sweet baby boys. The weaving was set aside for the next time she had a quiet moment to herself…and to this day remains unfinished.
…At least maybe that’s what happened. Or maybe two lovers were working on the weaving together and broke up right before they could finish it? Or perhaps there was a dream weaver insomniac that finally learned about melatonin? It’s a thriftstery (thrift + mystery)! This is why I love handmade things and old things–they ignite my imagination and make me think of history, family, roots…Someone asked if I planned to finish it myself–and my answer is no. I love how unfinished it is. Makes it so mysterious. What do you think happened? What’s your story for why the piece was never completed?
I think it is meant to be like that. Not intentionally and in the first place, but someone started it and then accepted that it would remain unfinished. Some things in life are never fulfilled and he or she needed a reminder that life still can be perfect.
I just wanna know your secret to not running out of wall space!!
It is finished. I believe the young man/woman who began this weaving, became fatigued with making something for someone else. The artisan, in an intentional act of empowerment, not defiance, reclaimed her/his life and got up and confidently walked away to pursue the desires of his/her heart.
All I know is that I need this–or something like it–in my life!
Beautiful.
I bet it looks amazing in your jungalow!! I totally love that piece and this story you gave it!
i agree, this piece is even more special as it’s unfinished…what a great find! i love the stories you can imagine.
I love this story! Justina, you should try writing short fiction.
You can tell so much love went into this piece. Love making up stories of thrift finds.
Hi friends, good piece of writing and fastidious urging commented at this place, I am genuinely enjoying
by these.