IN 1993, WHEN I MOVED TO NANTUCKET ISLAND AS A YEAR-ROUND RESIDENT, away from the distractions of urban living, I knew the simplicity of my new life would free me to concentrate on my work. What I did not realize was the extent to which Nantucket's dynamic whaling and social history would inspire the imagery and symbols of my embroidered narratives.

In 1998, I began to summarize the illustrated journal of Susan Veeder that is in the Nantucket Historical Association's manuscript collection. As a keeper of an illustrated journal myself, I felt an almost immediate affinity with her. Reading Veeder's journal gave rise to my first embroidered narrative. My inspiration continues to come from the women's journals and letters in the NHA's collection. Through her writings, I can examine a woman's life as a real person on her own terms. Quotations from the journals will often be the catalyst for a design. For this exhibition, I have also drawn inspiration from the lives of four contemporary Nantucket women.

In the first moments of working, while my mind is uncluttered, I solve the design or technical problems and receive inspiration - whatever is needed at the time. Then, I record and/or illustrate these ideas in my journal. I begin my designs by drawing single images, which I then arrange and rearrange until I am pleased with the overall composition. Then, I dye-paint the background on white cotton muslin. Next, I choose the embroidery and embellishment techniques appropriate to execute the design: hand embroidery, handmade needle lace, appliqué, beadwork, gold leaf, or carving. Finally, I quilt the embroidery with small diagonal stitches to create texture and linear interest. Through the intricacies of detail, I aim to encourage each observer to stop, focus, and become involved with the piece. I have always loved and been inspired by the techniques of illuminated manuscripts. In the intertwining of texts and images and the playful use of borders, my own pieces pay tribute to this rich tradition. There is great joy in the work. The whole process appeals to me.

The Nantucket women featured in this exhibition, through the ordinary and extraordinary times of their lives, are a continuing source of connection and inspiration.

--Susan Boardman