My experience with “Roping” Furniture

At a friendly gathering, one of my daughter’s friends inquired if anyone had a living room that he could “rope” and photograph.  It sounded interesting, and my living room often was quiet undisturbed area of my large house so I volunteered my living room.  We picked a Saturday and set it up.

The designated Saturday arrived, I greeted my artistic friends and showed him my living room.  It is a large room with high ceilings and a huge picture window on one side and three large windows on the street side, with a fireplace and mantle at the far end of the room.  In the room I had a few art works, (which I took down) 2 large couches, a heavy Victorian, velvet tufted couch with a matching oversized tufted chair to match with lots of mahogany wood on both pieces.  There were a few tables and plants, some floor lamps and big book shelves.

I had pictured I think, that the roping would mean lassoing or grouping the furniture, not what I saw.  About an hour and a half I checked in on the project, having been busy in the kitchen, when I opened the door to the living room and witness the living room turned into a pile of furniture I was honestly shocked beyond words. 

I could not have imagined such a thing, quite honestly and realized how horrified I was, that my quiet precious space was up on end and sculpted into a scary tower, a sort of “furniture bondage” my son-in-law called it.

I was in disbelief, rather terrified, somewhat angry that my calm space had been turned upside down, roped carefully I must say, but in a formation that did not resonate with any peaceful side of me.  I had to leave, I couldn’t look at it, afraid it might come crashing down at any moment.  I went off to do errands, to escape the uncomfortableness of the situation.  Could it be returned to normal, did I not even guess that this is what was meant by “roping.”  I came to realize the importance of the calmness of my living room and how I enjoy looking at it, in its peaceful, usual arrangement, it gives me solace when other chaotic events in my life may be overwhelming me.  To have this messed up, although with care and I must say strength, was upsetting to me.

Thankfully upon my return, all had been placed back in its original place with not a scratch on it.  I felt like I had survived “something,” I guess “a roping.”  Quite a new experience for this almost 60 year old.  I will treasure my living room even more because of it, and realized I learned a lot about my need for a peaceful sanctuary in my house (or life!)

Thank you for the gentle care of my furniture and sending me your amazing photos.  Even when I look at them it’s unbelievable and hits me at a pit of my stomach.  Good luck in your next adventures.

Now I know what “roping” furniture means!  Eek!

Sincerely,

Liz

4/6/06

Ink on paper
11” x 13.5 ”
2005

Liz’s Living Room, Rope Drawing 1