A diverse heritage from Europe led me to researching the unifying art form of lace. From about 1500 ce on, lace dwelled in the daily lives of European monarchs and working people and became a visual record of the times. Women were the primary lacemakers, and even though some would endure great physical consequence to do this work, they would be able to support families and even whole communities with their lacemaking skills.

In these drawings, lace and flowers are a touchpoint in the exploration of the complicated histories of Europe and the Americas.

French Revolution, Fleur de Lis, 18th Century French Lace         

Elizabeth Mesh

Detail, French Revolution, Fleur de Lis, 18th Century French Lace                                                       Elizabeth Mesh

Untitled                                                         Elizabeth Mesh

Lily, St. John's Wort, 18th Century French Lace    Elizabeth Mesh

Iris, Irish Lace for Princess Maud of Wales, 1800's                      Elizabeth Mesh