Color! Texture! Movement! Using Repurposed Materials!
Category: Art Creating Beauty
Art creating beauty comes in many forms and in many unexpected areas. This post reflects that wide reach of interest to the public regardless of genre.
My art quilts are all about the quilt artist creating abstract, whimsical or impressionistic pieces. Inspiration comes from the natural world as well as from Mexican and Native American influences. My materials of choice are often redirected fabrics from the San Francisco Design Center and found objects. Art quilts free me to play with color and texture. My technique, Scribble Quilting allows me to create movement on many of my pieces.
From the Fashion Show at Pacific International Quilt Festival
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From the Fashion Show at Pacific International Quilt Festival
I owe some of my inspiration to two artists from Santa Cruz County, California. Meri Vahl, an award winning art quilter has been recognized nationally for her work. Teacher of the fabric layering technique, she was patient. Understanding that each student brought individual strengths, weaknesses and abilities. Ellen edith;friend, art quilter, fabric designer and artist extraordinaire made whimsical, personal quilts. Her influence lives on well beyond her life. I have great appreciation for these two local leaders of the art quilt world.
SAQA (STUDIO ART QUILT ASSOCIATES)
I am proud to be part of an evergrowing group of art quilters. SAQA started by Yvonne Porcella in Northern California in 1989. It has grown to an international organization. Art quilters have transformed the quilt into a 21st Century art form. I continue to explore new forms and ways of working with unusual materials on this journey.
ABOUT THE ARTIST,BIO
I was born and raised in Palo Alto, California. In high school I studied sewing and clothing construction for two years. I continued to sew much of my wardrobe. In 1974,I took my first quilting class at a neighborhood fabric store. Over the years, I continued to sew clothes and make quilts for my family. I stopped counting bed quilts at 300. After teaching 30 years in Watsonville as a bilingual teacher, I retired to spend more time on creating art quilts.
MY FIRST ART QUILT
Homage to a Dancer,45″ x 56″”>Homage to a Dancer,45″ x 56″” data-medium-file=”https://i2.wp.com/annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Homage-to-a-Dancer669x669px.jpg?fit=287%2C300&ssl=1″ data-large-file=”https://i2.wp.com/annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Homage-to-a-Dancer669x669px.jpg?fit=580%2C606&ssl=1″ data-recalc-dims=”1″ />Homage to a Dancer,45″ x 56″
In 2008, I made my first art quilt, Homage to a Dancer. It reflects my participation in Los Méxicas,the University of California,Santa Cruz ballet folklórico group.
A STUDIO IN THE ART CENTER
In May of 2016, I opened a studio in the Santa Cruz Art Center, 1001 Center St. Downtown Santa Cruz. I have space to work and display my work. For First Fridays and Open Studios, I fill the lobby with art. In June, 2019 New York Art Center accepted my work into their gallery. 7 Franklin Place, TRIBECA, New York City.
AWARD WINNING ARTIST
Great Blue Heron at Dusk,31″ x 25″”>Great Blue Heron at Dusk” data-medium-file=”https://i1.wp.com/annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Great-Blue-Heron-crop1000px.jpg?fit=242%2C300&ssl=1″ data-large-file=”https://i1.wp.com/annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Great-Blue-Heron-crop1000px.jpg?fit=580%2C719&ssl=1″ data-recalc-dims=”1″ />Great Blue Heron at Dusk,31″ x 25″
Great Blue Heron at Dusk entered into an art show in 2010. The following year it won a merit award at the Olive Hyde Art Gallery in Fremont,California.
In 2013, Visions of New Mexico won third place in the Neo Membreno Vessels 2013 Show at the Western New Mexico University Museum in Silver City, New Mexico.
Beginning steps to creating art suggests some new ways of thinking about making our world beautiful. Creating comes naturally to humans. We are innately artists. We try to make our world beautiful. Some of us draw; while some of us paint. Others create beautiful food and table settings for our loved ones to enjoy. Others create beauty in their gardens.
Unfortunately, many of us do not feel that we are artistic. I certainly didn’t for many years. Yet, each of us can create beauty in our unique way. Here are some suggestions for beginning steps to creating a more beautiful everything or whatever you choose.
Beginning Steps to Creating Beauty
Part of my career as an elementary school teacher was spent at an arts infused school. We brought in special artists to teach across the arts curriculum from drawing, painting to theatre and dance. I had been at this school before this program started.
When the program began, the whole school adjusted its focus. I witnessed sn incredible shift in students’ attitudes. We told the children that we are going to try and make all of our work beautiful. We would not criticize the work of others. Trying to do one’s best was the important part. The attitude of the whole school changed for the better. It was so powerful to witness that change.
Think Differently.
Looking outside the box. Many times it is our own perspective that keeps us from seeing things in a new way. Often we acquire materials or fabric with a particular idea in mind. Then it is difficult to get rid of that idea or to envision a new use for the item.
Do these look like coffee beans?
When I got this green fabric, it reminded me of coffee beans. That is the image that stuck in my head. I wasn’t sure how to use the fabric. It sat on the shelf for a long time. Then I began to think differently about it. How could I use it a different way? I decided to use the ovals as bit of motion in the truck of a tree. What little bits of color could I highlight to pull those colors to the forefront and diminish the greenish colors ? A peachy orange shade would do the trick. As my county recovered from the largest forest fire ever, my art quilts reflect that new growth.
Rebirth of a Forest,art quilt,29″ x 22″
Turn the Fabric Around
Another way to look at a piece of material or fabric in a new way, is to turn it around. If it has definitite figures on it ,what will they look like from another direction? New and unrecognizable is what I would be going for. When an abstract artist finishes a work, they often turn the art upside down and sideways to see if it might look better from a different angle. The original fabric for the trees and branches in Skyward was a black,white and gray fabric that had greyhound dogs on it. The movement of the fabric caught my eye before I noticed that there were actual dogs on it.
GreyhoundsSkyward, an art quilt
Imagining Shapes
While working on my nature quilts, I cut out shapes for trees, branches, fish, rocks, or waves. I look at the fabric to see if the shapes on the fabric tell me what it would like to be in my piece. Does a swervy line imply a wave? Maybe a mountrain will appear from the shapes on the fabric? If no shape strikes me on the fabric, then I create my own mountain or a river. The idea is not to find a piece of fabric that has a river on it. But to create a river from lines that the original fabric artist had not thought about..
Visualization
As I am creating, I try to visualize what the piece is lacking. What color or shape needs to be in a particular spot? This often guides me to a hue or textile choice. This is a newly acquired skill for me. I surprised myself when I realized visualization was happening. You can make it happen for you too.
Activities to Practice Beginning Steps to Creating
Here are a couple of powerful skills that can be practiced with no materials at all. Look at pieces of art in the real or virtual world. There certainly are many examples available on social media. Ask yourself, do you like this work? What do you like about it ? How would you make it better? If it were your piece to change, how would you modify it?
Keys to my Heart, 9″ x 7″
Another practice activity is to think of how many different non traditional ways an item could be used. I recently acquired a box of antique keys. I am venturing forward into assemblage, putting repurposed items together in unusual ways. What could the keys be used for? The possibilities are endless; a nose? hair? or other body parts or just purely decoration? While I searched the internet for inspiration, I came up empty. Left to my own devices,I have sprinkled this post with the ideas that I came up with.
Face with a Key Nose
In Conclusion
Start with baby steps. Create small bits beauty in your life. Practice helps. I took an assemblage class over two years ago. It took me this long for the ideas to perculate through my brain. Be kind to yourself during the learning process. Trying in the first step. There are no mistakes just whether you as the artist likes it or not. If not, modify it. Dip into your humanity and make the world more beautiful.
Recent attempts at assemblage came about from my interest in fiber and 3D objects. Sometimes it can be scary to try a new direction. Moving in a new direction is something that I generally do very slowly.The assemblage art form utilizes found objects that appeal to my deep sensibility for using redirected or upcycled materials. I had been adding 3D found objects to my art quilts since the beginning of my art career. The time came for me to further my skills by taking a class on assemblage. If I can try something new, so can you.
Under the Beautiful Redwoods-2018
Back in the Fall of 2018, I participated in an assemblage class taught by local artist, Janet Silverglate. The day long class met at her house outside under the beautiful redwoods of Felton, California. She introduced us to many new materials and skills. She was generous with both of them. Practicing with an electric drill was a new experience for me. The class learned the importance of working backwards on each piece. Figuring out how to hang or display the piece was one of the first necessary decisions to be made.
The Piece I made in Class
This is the piece that I made. I contributed the fiber background and the metal rim. Janet graciously offered the other parts including the green paper, and large button on the top. She also helped with the process of adjoining all pieces together that I was having trouble accomplishing. While I am pleased with the finished product, I recognize that I had a lot of help.
Piece made in class,2018
I thoroughly enjoyed the day completing my first assemblage piece. As with many beginners, I was in awe of the teacher’s skill and proficiency. She had a large room full of materials that she had gathered. I could relate to that process. I also gather materials without considering their future use. However, due to a lack of extra space,I wanted to restrict myself to the materials that I already had. I couldn’t imagine gathering materials for assemblage projects as well as a wide variety of materials for art quilts. Luckily, my inheritance supplied me with a variety of interesting items I could use.
Several Recent Attempts at Assemblage
I took a long while before I felt the creative juices flowing to try something on my own. Maybe the shelter in place helped in that regard. My thoughts were also that a successful piece begins with an interesting framework or support system. I was waiting to find a worthy object.
My husband supplied me with a wooden drawer from a small piece of furniture of his mother’s. The drawer was from some sort of a sewing unit. It had a wooden tray that originally was used to store thread and small items. I turned the tray on its side.
Making Decisions
My inheritance included many sewing items. I found the idea of covering the edges with fabric measuring tape appealing. First, I added screw in hooks to the top for hanging. Then I glued the fabric measuring tape to the sides. Here are some of my other first choices. I moved the buttons around. Eliminating some of the sewing items creates a more general audience appeal.
Trying out ideas with lots of sewing itemsHighlighting the measuring tape glued on the side.
Trying Different Things
Numerous attempts were made before settling on this final arrangement. I had many empty wooden spools that I wanted to use. Yet, previously I had noticed the lack of color in other people’s empty spool projects. I preferred the addition of some thread color. Luckily, my mother and mother-in-law had left me many sizes and choices of colors. Whimsical animals add fun as well as color!
Wooden Spool Assemblage,2020
Another Recent Attempts at Assemblage-A Wooden Spool Wreath
For a long time I looked for inspiration on what I could do with my empty wooden spools. I did have a lot of them. Finally I saw a unique wreath that inspired me to try to make a wreath using them. I happily found red beads to alternate for a holiday look. The framework is a fiber paper plate holder. It is turned upside down so that it will lay flat against the wall. I found a metal clip with a circular ring that I had. It attaches like a clothes pin. How easy was that!
Wooden Spool Wreath,2020
How to String the Spools
I bought several sizes of small width dowels to see which size would fit best. I chose the smallest one possible, less than 1/4″ wide to string the spoons and beads on. At first I tried to have all lengths equal. But I broke a dowel so I had to make do. I think that the different lengths are actually an improvement. Mistakes can be good. The tiniest dab of glue holds each bead and spool in place on the dowel. I repurposed a burlap bow I had received on a recent gift. How serendipitious was that! The finished product hangs in my studio window.
Black Lives Still Matter
Black Lives Matter Decoration,2020
What would 2020 be without a sincere homage to Black Lives Matter! I made several similar pieces using patriotic red,white and blue ribbons. On the white part of the ribbons, I wrote A Violation Should Not Be A Death Sentence and Black Lives Matter. It has been obvious to me for years now that black people were shot and killed rather than just arrested or ticketed for a violation. Now another variation piece has Equal Rights For All written on the ribbons.
Indigenous Inspirations, 2020
In conclusion, this year of Shelter in Place gave me the time to set aside any fears that I may have had about trying something new. Recent attempts at asssemblage helped me develop my new portfolio. Thanks for letting me share them with you.
First of all visual arts are diverse art forms. For example painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, photography, video, filmmaking, design, and architecture are visual arts. Furthermore,many artistic disciplines such as performing arts, conceptual art, and textile arts also involve aspects of visual arts. Wikipedia
Something New-Visual Art Network to Support County Artists
For 34 years, each October artists across Santa Cruz County have opened their studios to the public. Above all,the Arts Council Santa Cruz County sponsered these Open Studios Art Tours. As a result of COVID, the methods changed. Nonetheless,their support has not faltered. The county created the Visual Arts Network, an online space for artists to display their art. In addition,the Network showcases the work of the many creatives that call Santa Cruz County their home. https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2018/04/new-visitor-rack-card/
How The Visual Art Network Supports Artists
First of all,the Visual Arts Network of Santa Cruz County is a directory of over 300 artists. For example, you’ll find a wide variety of creators from painters, sculptors, woodworkers and much more. Furthermore,each artist has their own page. In order for the public to learn about their process and their creations. In addition, one can connect with them directly. That is to say that one may search by name, location or medium, explore all the artists, or meet featured artists.
Finally, local artists are so lucky to have the support of the county. In addition,the Open Studios Event Director, Ann Ostermann is a masterful, innovative leader. Furthermore,her bright personality welcomes everyone to the delight of art. In conclusion, inclusivity reigns supreme.
The Visual Arts Network is no longer active. Arts Council Santa Cruz continues to support artists through the annual Open Studios and in other year long activities.
First steps towards assemblage occurred before I was even aware that I was moving in that direction. Assemblage is a newer art form of putting different items together in a new and unusual way. That is to say that with a new focus on recycling and redirecting art takes on new forms.
In addition, it can take on many different forms including metal, paper and fiber. Materials are often found objects. Furthermore,they can either being used as found or taken apart to highlight intricate usually unseen pieces.
First Steps -Ready to try Something New?
Aboriginal,black and white assemblage 18 ” x 14″ 2013
In 2013, I completed my first 3D collage piece. For example,some black and white objects called to me. At first, a figure I had made using decorative details were arranged on a redirected piece of fiber. Above all if we consider aboriginal to mean the first, maybe the title is prophetic.
Mexican Inspired Fiber Assemblage
Later in 2018, more redirected fiber directed me to make some Mexican inspired fiber assemblage pieces. Here is my Fun with Fiber series.The sizes are generally smaller than 15″ wide. First of all one must consider how to hang the piece before continuing with the design process.Moreover,you may recognize small decorative details, fabrics and found objects in these pieces.
Native Sunset With Cats, soldBracelet of Beaded FriendsFun with Fiber 5Memories of the HuntWorry Dolls
This whimsical underwater fantasy on a mouse pad includes sea turtles, seadragons, jellies and kelp.
Decorative Mouse Pads
Decorative mouse pads and mouse pads in general serve several important purposes. If speed and precision are important, then a mouse pad will help. Of course,gamers fall into that category. In addition,pads also keep your desk scratch free. The repeated actions of the rubber or plastic feet of your mouse against the surface of your desk will leave marks regardless of the type of surface one has. A mouse pad also keeps dust out of the interior of your mouse .
Enter the Artful Mouse Pad
Above all,an artful mouse pad is an affordable way to add a bit of beauty or uniqueness to your desk. Express yourself. Here are some examples of my art that I have had digitally attached to a mousepad. Each of my portfolios- Mexican Inspired, Nature(trees and underwater fantasies) and abstract art is represented. What a creative conversation starter!
Beautify for Your Desk At Home or Work
La Danza de Los Viejitos, Danza de Michoacán, México
This decorative mouse pad is the male regional dress for Michoacán, México. In La Danza de Los Viejitos(the Dance Of the Little Old Men), young costumed men wear masks and fringed hats. The dancers wobble with canes onto the stage imitating old men.
Then a dance competition ensues to see who completes the liveliest dance steps. Dancers try and knock each other over with their canes. In the end, the dancers all wobble off the stage again.
Market Day mouse pad
A brightly colored Mexican inspired mousepad of a woman off to go shopping.
Nature Art on Mouse Pads
Underwater Serenity mousepad
Another fun underwater fantasy full of plants, animals and fish.
LoneTree mousepad
Trees are one of my most popuar themes. Multicolored leaves overreach the borders.
Vacant Lot mousepad
This tree has a lot of activity and variation in the background.
These artful mouse pads are available for $32. with free shipping from my etsy shop.
Recent Random But Good Acts demonstated how divergent parts of one’s life can come together and make sense.
Recent Random But Good Acts
Shelter in Place
During the recent Shelter in Place, I was horrified,like many Americans, to see the murder of George Floyd. How to process forward from such a horrific event! Not an easy task! How to even begin distilling my views? Yet I felt compelled to create something. A decade had passed since I had created political quilts. It had been so long. I hadn’t even remembered that I had made them.
Finally, I created an art quilt with two black figures, a man and a woman dressed in African fabrics, appliqued on a variety of skin toned fabrics in the background. Red and blue hearts on their chests represented the love the black people have this country in spite of the fact that the love is not always returned.
Let Us Breathe, Ann Baldwin May,2020We are the Story , art quilt show venues.
In the past several years, I had refrained from entering national shows. My focus became local. I choose to show at the juried county Open Studios, local shows and First Friday Art Tour.These events have all been cancelled . When I saw a call for entry, Racism: In the Face of Hate We Resist, I considered entering. Yet, I hestitated. My piece is subtle. Maybe it it time for black artists to shine and take the spotlight. Then I remembered the slogan, White Silence is Violence. I needed to enter the show to show my support to the issue. This slogan rang true to me because that is exactly the way I feel about good men who are not vocal enough about women’s rights. So I entered my piece and was accepted.
Dr. Carolyn Mazlotti, curator
Dr. Carolyn Mazlotti, founder of Women of Color Quilters Network, is the curator. I had heard her speak at a Studio Art Quilt Associates(SAQA) conference several years before. She has done an incredible of curating and promoting the show. There will be seven or more venues. However at the time of my acceptance, many were still being arranged. So I was not made aware of the venues at all. That was not a problem for me as I sent my art quilt off. But it set the stage for the random event.
wild fires
Plans for the show in Minneapolis continued while wild fires raged in California. Many fires started due to a spectacular lightening storm with lightening strikes hitting dry foliage. Unfortunately, one large fire was nearby in my county. The large property adjacent to my house was on mandatory evacuation. Firefighters were in short supply due to the overwhelming number of fires through the state. Another lightening storm was predicted in several days. We moved special items to my studio located in a safe spot, downtown. I self evacuated myself to a friend’s house 12 miles away. Luckily, more firefighters arrived and the forecasted lightening storm was uneventful. In general, the weather cooperated. I returned home after the second storm passed over us. Even though we were all fine, it took a week to readjust and recover from the disorientation.
Random Act #1
It was during that first week back home that the first random event happened. I received an email from an old friend, Heidi. She included a photo of my artwork in a Swedish newsletter. What? How did she get my art? How did my art get into a Swedish Newsletter? Heidi and I went to high school together. We had reconnected at a previous high school reunion. As far as I knew she was not Swedish. She graciously slugmailed me Posten,the newsletter of the American Swedish Institute in Minneapolis. Then the random pieces fell together.
Announcement in Posten,the newsletter of the American Swedish Institute.
Random Act #2
Heidi had previously worked at the American Swedish Institute so she was on their newsletter mailing list. She informed me that in fact she was half Swedish and half Finnish.The American Swedish Institute in Minneapolis is the site of the first venue of the shows. My art quilt was the photo chosen to advertise the new show.
Random Act #3
The newsletter had chosen my art quilt out of many. That is random.
Random Act #4
Then they printed my name along side of the quilt. This doesn’t often happen. If the name had not been prominently shown, my friend wouldn’t have even suspected that it was my art.
As an aside the Textile Center of Minneapolis is one of the major sponsers of this show. The Textile Center’s gift shop was one of the first places outside of my local area that I had shown my work. Unfortunately, it was during the Great Depression of 2006-08. The Textile Center will be final venue of the show in June,2021.
In conclusion, if my friend had not worked at the Swedish Institute, she would not have received the newsletter. If the Institute had not placed my name center stage and very visible, my friend might not have noticed it. So it was with much relief that I finally undertood how the different parts of my life had come together recently through rather random connections.
Finally,the theme of this year’s show is “people, places and poetry”. The artists were asked to create a passionate expression of people and places that they have experienced in life. We asked our members to create fresh new and original artwork to make this truly a unique member’s exhibit.
In conclusion,PVA thanks our curators, laura laura and Lyn MacDonald
(If you are interested in purchasing any of the beautiful artwork in the show with a listed price, please contact our Gallery Coordinator at brianna@pvarts.org
Found Torso by Jeff Arnett, $450, Sculpture 14″ x 9″ x 3″Winter of Rain by Jeff ArnettSilence by John Babcock, $2400, Pigmented paper, bamboo, wood & brass 47″ x 24″ x 3″“A special eye is always on you”. Billy Collin’s “All Eyes” by Michael Bashista, $300, Marble Sculpture, 12″ x 5,Green Dew Drops by Jean Sheckler Beebe, $475, Acrylic on Panel with Woodfried Ceramic Cup, 17.5″ x 23.75Poem to accompany Green Dew Drops by Jean BeebeBlanketed Boulders by Mike Beebe, $600, Acrylic on Panel with Woodfried Ceramic Cup, 17.5″ x 23.75″ x 5″Poem to accompany Blanketed Boulders by Mike BeebeFamily – Bound By Memories by Eva Bernstein, $300, Monotype, 15″ x 15″When We Were… by Sarah Bianco, $2100, Mixed Media on Canvas, 60″ x 72″Watsonville at Home by Jeri Bodemar, Color Photograph Poster, 36″ x 24″
Group 2 Pajaro Valley Arts Show
Reborn in Starlight by Brad Burkhart, $850, High-fried Clay Relief, 14″ x 22″ x 3″Sundown by Brad Burkhart with commentsSpring Showers by Ruth Carroll, $1300, Oil on Linen, 18″ x 24″Woody at the Lighthouse by Larry Cohen, $250, Digital, 11″ x 14″Covid Reflections by Kati D’Amore, $500, Oil on Linen, 16″ x 20″Blue by Karen Druker, $575, Mixed Media, 28″ x 22″Happy Haint Studio Spirit (Belle) by Laura Laura, $500, Assemblage, 38″ x 24″Face of the Vase by David Fleming, $1150, Oil on Canvas, 30″ x 24″Cassandra: Face on the Vase by Jeanne Lance (to accompany David Fleming artwork)Magdelena by Judy Gittelsohn, $2500, Golden Acrylic on Linen, 24″ x 18″
Group 3 Pajaro Valley Arts Show
People, Places, Poetry (to Christo) by Jane Gregorius, $300, Mixed Media, 18″ x 18″Le Printemps (Springtime) by Michele Hausman, $1800, Oil on Linen, 18″ x 24″Soil Song by Michele HausmanFlying to Freedom VI by Anita Heckman, $250, Linocut, 12″ x 12″ (Framed: 19″ x 19″)The Poet by Hedwig Heerschop, $750, Color Photograph, 20″ x 24″The English Langue by Derek Walcott (to accompany artwork The Poet by Hedwig Heerschop)Lavender Field by Joan Hellenthal, $600, Pastel, 16″ x 18″Thinking of Miles by Anouk Johanna, Water- soluble Colored Pencil, NFSThe Beauty of a Spring Day at Pleasure Point by Bill Kennann, $750, Oil on Canvas, 14″ x 18″Dickey Bird by Peter Koronakos, $135, Assemblage, 7″ x 3″ x 10″“VOTE” Your Vote is Your Vote by Lucien Kubo, $650, Mixed Media/Assemblage, 16″ x 16″A Conversation by the Sea by Barbara Lawrence, $3000, Oil on Canvas, 30″ x 30″
Group 4 Pajaro Valley Arts Show
Art and Allergies by Carol Worthington Levy, $800, Acrylic on Clay Board, 20″ x 16″Hope For the World by Gaby Litsky, $150, Textile-Quilt, 23.5″ x 19.5″Cuba by Lyn MacDonald, $500, Oil Paint on Cast Paper & Mixed Media, 25″ x 22″Running Mates by Helen Mackinlay, $100, Lino Etching with Monotype, 11″ x 14″ FramedMy Garden, A Never Ending Inspiration by Martine Mahoudeau, $325, 9″ x 12″Art of the Splash by Francine Marshall, $1499, Oil on Canvas, 24″ x 30″Alien Landscape by Marty McGillivray, $150 (unframed), Photography, 12.5″ x 18.5″California Gold by Marlene Mirassou, $250, Archival Digital Photograph with Handmade Redwood Frame, 36″ x 16″California Gold by Marlene MirassouGoing Viral – Black & White by Chris Miroyan, $750, Acrylic on Panel, 36″ x 24″The Border Crossed Us by Ann Baldwin May, 32″ x 26″,$3200.
Group 5 Pajaro Valley Arts Show
Taipei Temple by Don Monkerud, $150, Photo, 16″ x 20″Reflecting in South County by Bruce Nicholson, $350, Multi, 15″ x 18″ (Framed)The End of All Our Exploring by Janis O’Driscoll, $80, Photopolymer Etching on Stonehenge with Eco-print Pieces on Washi Mounted on Wood Panel, 14″ x 11″Woman Emerging by Jeff Owen, $600, Sculpture – Stainless Steel, 35″ x 18″This Place by Rosy Penhallow, $550, Wood, Metal Coil, Gold Pigment, 18.5″ x 6.75″Red Dot by Bela Ravikumar, $200 Digital Print Media, 15″ x 11″Eyes on Fire by Ronit Reznichky, $800, Acrylic on Canvas, 24″ x 24″Tribal III by Vivienne Riggio, $800, Wire, Plaster, Acrylic Paint, 28″ x 15″ x 15″Going Places by Rose Sellery, $1200, Mixed Media & Found Objects, 20.5″ x 8.75″ x 8.5″Sunrise on Hope by Beth Shields, $1200, Oil on Canvas, 40″ x 20″
Group 6 Pajaro Valley Arts Show
Shelter In Place by Judy Stabile, $250, Mixed Media Collage, 12″ x 16″Midnight Glass by Madeleine Stober. $333, Acrylic, 48″ x 18″Midnight Glass by Maddie StoberAt Gortyn, Crete by Lee Taiz, $400, Watercolor, 24″ x 29″This Must Be The Place by Terry Teitelbaum, $96, Photo Print on Metal, 12″ x 12″Back To the Garden by Lynne Todaro, $850, Bronze, Nickel-Silver, Found Object, 10″ x 14″ x 8″Line Dance by Sally Vaughn, $295, Giclèe on Metal of an Original Tempera on Paper, 12.5″ x 24″Looking Back by Lynda Watson, Pencil Drawings on Paper, Sterling Silver, Mixed Media, 14″ x 6″ NFSHarriet Tubman by Melissa West, $85 (unframed), Linoleum Block Print, 22″ x 25″Eureka Dunes 4 by Chad Williams, $300 (on metal unframed), Photo, 10″ x 30″ ($475 on single matt with black frame)Autumn Glory by Sylvia Winsby, $150, Pastel, 9″ x 12″Art and Allergies by Carol Worthington-Levy
About Pajaro Valley Arts (PVA)
Our Mission:“Bringing the community together through the arts.”
Pajaro Valley Arts (PVA) has been successfully carrying out its mission of “bringing the community together through the arts” since 1984. PVA fosters and promotes the arts in this community with professional visual art exhibits in partnership with guest curators, schools, city government, and local organizations. This organization encourages all art forms and helps connect the community to the artists and their work at no cost to the public. PVA believes every person deserves to have access to the arts and conducts year-round programming to fulfill this vision.
History and Accomplishments:
The Pajaro Valley Arts Council, known as Pajaro Valley Arts (PVA), was founded as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization in 1984 in Watsonville, California, to promote and foster cultural events in the Pajaro Valley and south Santa Cruz County.
Serving Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Benito Counties, PVA creates access to high quality visual arts exhibits and promotes arts education to our community. The first class gallery and management office is housed in one of Watsonville’s premier historic dwellings, a 116 year-old structure provided rent-free by the City of Watsonville. We work collaboratively to develop and promote opportunities for public participation in and appreciation for the arts. PVA opened the its first gallery in 1986, and continues to present rotating visual art exhibitions in both the gallery and off-site locations.
Annual exhibits
We produce seven to eight exhibits each year in our gallery and off-site locations. Five annual exhibits highlight the schedule: Take Away’s: Art to Go, our winter fundraising exhibit; our year-long PVUSD Student Art Show in, in collaboration with the City of Watsonville and PVUSD at the Watsonville Civic Plaza; our thematic summer membership show; Sculpture Is, at Sierra Azul Nursery and Gardens; and Mi Casa es Tu Casa showcasing community collaborations celebrating the traditions of Day of the Dead. We support and encourage all art forms and strive to connect the community to artists and their work.
Working with other regional arts organizations
PVA maintains on-going relationships with the regional arts community through membership in the Associates of the Arts Council of Santa Cruz County, Santa Cruz County Alliance for Arts Education, and other local cultural organizations.
A combination of our staff, volunteers, and your support enables us to fulfill our mission. Please consider joining our organization as a member or volunteer.
First of all,We Are the Story represents Black Lives Matter and Art. For example,this is a multi-site initiative of quilt exhibitions. Above all,Dr.Carolyn Mazloomi worked tirelessly to curate these shows. Furthermore,much thanks to the Textile Center & Women of Color Quilters Network for their ongoing support.
Black Lives Matter and Art
Barbara Eady, “Black Lives Matter” – WCQN exhibit “We Who Believe in Freedom”
September 2, 2020 update from the Textile Center of Minneapolis, MN.
First,Textile Center and Women of Color Quilters Network (WCQN) announced extending the schedule for We Are the Story. To clarify, this seven quilt exhibitions is curated by Carolyn Mazloomi, September 10, 2020 through June 12, 2021.
We are the Story, art quilt show venues.
Group and Solo Exhibitions
Above all,group and solo exhibitions build upon symbols of liberation, resistance and empowerment.Similarly,they offer visually compelling accounts of the experiences and struggles of Black history.
During this year,Minneapolis became the epicenter of the nationwide protest movement against police brutality in America following the murder of George Floyd.The Textile Center and Women of Color Quilters Network (WCQN)joined forces to create We Are the Story, a multi-venue initiative in the Twin Cities, September 10, 2020, through June 12, 2021.
Dr.Carolyn Mazloomi, a member of Textile Center’s National Artist Advisory Council is the curator. Previously,she founded the Women of Color Quilters Network. After that,We Are the Story opened in September with exhibitions at Textile Center and the American Swedish Institute.
We are the Story
Due to challenges related to the pandemic, Textile Center extended the timeline for We Are the Story into June 2021. That is to say this will ensure that the quilts can be seen in person by as many people as possible. Furthermore,the exhibition will coincide with the first anniversary of George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis.
Two Juried Exhibitions
To clarify,Gone but Never Forgotten: Remembering Those Lost to Police Brutality and Racism: In the Face of Hate We Resist serve as a centerpiece for We Are the Story. Likewise, given the urgency of these issues in America, quilters from around the nation worked quickly. For instance,the calls were open in mid-June to all artists regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, race, religion, creed, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity in mid-June. In short,four hundred and twenty three quilts were submitted by the July 31 deadline. Mazloomi selected 89 quilts for the two exhibitions.
Dr.Carolyn Mazloomi
The First Venue
As part of We Are the Story, the American Swedish Institute presented the Minnesota premiere of Women of Color Quilt Network’s We Who Believe in Freedom. From September 10 through November 1, 2020. In addition,to honor the 55th anniversary of the Freedom Riders, We Who Believe in Freedom represents works by members of Women of Color Quilt Network.
We Are the Story also includes four solo exhibitions.
First, I Wish I Knew How it Feels to be Free Quilts by Dorothy Burge, Chicago, IL presented at Textile Center SacredInvocations Quilts by Sylvia Hernandez, Brooklyn, NY The Protest Series Quilts by Penny Mateer, Pittsburgh, PA Freedom Rising: I Am the Story Quilts by L’Merchie Frazier, Boston, MA.
Organizations taking part include
1.The University of Minnesota’s Weisman Art Museum, Division of Indian Work in South Minneapolis
2.The University of Minnesota’s Robert J. Jones Urban Research and Outreach-Engagement Center in North Minneapolis
3. Homewood Studios in North Minneapolis, Studio 106 in Burnsville
4.St. Catherine University’s Apparel, Merchandising and Design Gallery.
A series of Zoom Talks
In addition, a series of Zoom talks happened.They included We Are the Story: Let’s Talk about Race presented by Textile Center, Women of Color Quilt Network and Friends. Furthermore,these Zoom presentations focused on issues of police brutality, racism, and inequities in America. Clearly in support of Black Lives Matter. Lastly,they will also introduce the more than 100 quilters featured in these exhibitions. The Zoom talks will be open to the public.
WE ARE THE STORY CALENDAR OF SCHEDULED EXHIBITIONS
Textile Center, Joan Mondale Gallery September 15 – December 24, 2020
To be clear,Gone but Never Forgotten: Remembering Those Lost to Police Brutality is a national juried exhibition.For example,it showcases 26 quilts that honor those whose lives were violently. On the other hand,it critiques the targeting and criminalization of Black bodies throughout history.
Textile Center, Joan Mondale Gallery, Mary Giles Gallery, Community Gallery March 26 – June 12, 2021
Clearly,this international juried exhibition, Racism: In the Face of Hate We Resistbuilds on these narratives. For example by featuring 63 quilts they share the stories of resistance and fortitude. To be clear these stories aret integral to the survival of Black people in America. During this time, quilts from the other We Are the Story exhibitions are to be exhibited.Clearly a community-wide outreach initiative will provide an opportunity for our community to have one last comprehensive viewing.It is planned as our community observes the first anniversary of George Floyd’s death.
We Who Believe in Freedom Quilts by members of WCQN
American Swedish Institute, Osher Gallery September 10 – November 1, 2020
We Who Believe in Freedom presented in 2016 to honor the 55th anniversary of the Freedom Riders. For example,it represents works by members of WCQN that tell the story of the African American experience.
I Wish I Knew How it Feels to be Free Quilts by Dorothy Burge, Chicago, IL
Textile Center, Community Gallery September 29 –December 24, 2020
Similarly,Dorothy Burge, a member of WCQN, is a multimedia artist and community activist. To be clear,she is inspired by both historic and current social justice issues. For example,she is one of the strongest voices in Chicago for police accountability and reparations for survivors of police torture. Dorothy will be a featured guest in our Zoom Let’s Talk About Race conversations.
We Are the Story Quilts by Penny Mateer, Pittsburgh, PA
Weisman Art Museum October 15 – March 14, 2021
Likewise,Penny Mateer is an artist/activist who works with textiles and recycled materials. Clearly,quilting and embroidery take center stage in her work. Consistently she draws from this rich history of creating functional objects that provide warmth and comfort. Moreover,fabric is her primary material to establish a shared experience. After that,discussion sparks around current events. In addition,her social practice centers on a community-made public art project to promote voting.
Freedom Rising: I Am the Story Quilts by L’Merchie Frazier, Boston, MA
Clearly,L’Merchie Frazier is a public fiber artist, quilter, historian, innovator, poet and holographer. Furthermore,she has served the artistic community nationally and internationallyfor more than 25 years.In addition,she has had visual and performance art residencies in Boston, Brazil, Taiwan, Costa Rica, Africa, France, and Cuba. In other words,her social justice artistic work activates youth. Above all,her work with adults involves a model that levels the playing field.
Sacred Invocations Quilts by Sylvia Hernandez, Brooklyn, NY
Lastly,Sylvia Hernandez is a celebrated and self-taught master quilter. She creates timeless, handcrafted works that address community and human right issues. Sylvia is currently the president of the Quilters of Color Network of NYC, co-president of the Brooklyn Quilters Guild. Currently a member of the WCQN,she teaches at El Puente Academy of Peace and Justice. She has worked with AgitArte in Puerto Rico.
The Growth of Art Quilts’ Popularity-Art Quilts: 1980–1999
Art quilts from Studio Art Quilt Associates(SAQA) 1980s-1990s
When did art quilts start?
How did art quilts establish themselves as an art form and move into mainstream gallery showings, exhibitions, and more? How did art quilters band together? Where did the driving force behind textile art come from? Quilting Arts contributor Sandra Sider answers these questions. She explores the history of the art quilt from 1980–1999. In additionMs. Sider to tracks the growth of art quilts’ popularity.
The Origin of Art Quilts
You may be surprised to learn that the term art quilt did not exist until 1983. Robert Shaw explained in his book The Art Quilt(1997). After launching The Quilt Digest, Michael Kile teamed with curator and writer Penny McMorris to organize The Art Quilt. This traveling exhibition of new works by sixteen artists, above all, trailblazers in the field. The catalogue declared. After that the art quilt emerged. It heralded a dramatic and fundamental change in the history of quilts. Art for walls, not beds, created by artists expressing themselves in original designs of cloth and thread.A first step in the growth of art quilts’ popularity
“Forest in New England” • Noriko Endo • 1996 • 55″ x 84″ | Photo by Nagamitsu Endo
New venues for art quilt exhibitions and workshops
Several institutions promoting art quilts were founded from the late 1970s until the mid-1980s. The American Museum of Quilts and Related Arts now San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles) started in 1977. Quilt San Diego now Quilt Visions sprung forth in 1985. New England Quilt Museum began in Lowell, Massachusetts, in 1987. That is to say that they are all leaders in the art quilt venue world! Another step in the growth of art quilts’ popularity
Five Quilt Institutions
The following decade saw five quilt institutions founded across the country. Beginning with the Rocky Mountain Quilt Museum in Golden, Colorado, in 1990. The following year, the National Quilt Museum was founded in Paducah, Kentucky. In 1995 the Virginia Quilt Museum was established in Harrisonburg. The La Conner Quilt Museum in La Conner, Washington (now the Pacific Northwest Quilt & Fiber Arts Museum), opened its doors in 1997. The same year philanthropists and quilt collectors Robert and Ardis James were instrumental in founding the International Quilt Study Center & Museum at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln. These venues exhibited quilts of all types.They provided quilt artists with refreshing new avenues to explore. In addition these venues provided spaces where their work could be collected and appreciated. Venues are important for the growth of art quilts’ popularity.
“Four Patch: Hay/Wheat/Rye/Barley” • Dorothy Caldwell • 1994–05 • 96″ x 98″ • Collection of Eleanor McCain | Photo by Gulf Reflections Studio, Inc
Quilt Surface Design Symposium
Quilt artists Nancy Crow and Linda Fowler founded the Quilt Surface Design Symposium (QSDS) in Ohio in 1990.They offered a broad variety of educational opportunitiesadding to the growth of art quilts’ popularity. During the first decade of QSDS, hundreds of students experimented with new techniques and processes in these workshops. Most importantly, the art quilters of the future developed their skills therein.
Quilting By the Lake
By the 1990s, Quilting By the Lake (founded in 1981) in upstate New York had also become a popular destination for quilters in general. Many classes focussed on art quilts by the end of the decade. Empty Spools Seminars in Asilomar, California(1986)and at Art Quilt Tahoe(1998)expanded where quilt artists shared their expertise. Meanwhile, art quilters practiced their skills. All of these increased the growth of art quilts’ popularity.
“Dashboard Saints: In Memory of St. Christopher (Who Lost His Magnetism) • Terrie Hancock Mangat • 1985 • 99″ x 124″ • Collection of the International Quilt Study Center & Museum, Lincoln, Nebraska | Photo courtesy of the artist
Nonprofit Professional Organizations
SDA-Surface Design Association
Several nonprofit professional organizations helped bring momentum and innovation to the Art Quilt Movement during the 1980s and 1990s. Founded in 1977, the Surface Design Association provides a platform for the exchange of ideas, methods, and materials.Theirs is a wide community working in textile media and fiber arts.
Women of Color Quilters Network
In 1985, Dr. Carolyn L. Mazloomi founded The Women of Color Quilters Network. This non-profit group fosters to preserve the art of quilt making among women of color. Today, a few men are members include a few men. The organization offers quilts and fiber art to museums for exhibition. In addition, they research and document African American quilt making.
SAQA- Studio Art Quilt Associates
In 1989, Yvonne Porcella invited 50 quilt artists to join with her to found Studio Art Quilt Associates (SAQA).They organized conferences and exhibitions. In addition they developed a database of artwork by its members. SAQA promoted their members art to galleries and museums. Now SAQA has grown to 3,500 members in 39 countries. It continues to support the art quilt through education, numerous exhibitions, professional development, documentation, and publications. Moreover,the importance of these different organizations cannot be overemphasized.
“Robe of the Dragon” • Yvonne Porcella • 1982 | Photo courtesy of the artist’s estate
In conclusion
In the 1980s and 1990s, art quilts thrived. Makers focused their energy and imagination on this relatively new medium. Museums supported their efforts. Publishers catered to their talents. Artists began to travel to teach workshops internationally. Many of them networked with students and colleagues to share new techniques and exhibitions. They formed a flourishing community of quilt artists that would grow astronomically in the 21st century.
Sandra Sider, a studio quilt artist, has published articles and books concerning fiber and art for four decades. Ms. Sider has a Masters in Art History from the Institute of Fine Arts, New York University. She is a past president of SAQA. In 2012 she became curator for the Texas Quilt Museum. Visit her website here.
It has been said for example that if you don’t care about politics, then you don’t care about life. Politics and life are inseparable. I made these Political Quilts 2020 this Spring in response to the Black Lives Matter movement. In addition,they also speak to the call for attention to the human treatment of immigrants and respect for the essential workers. Similarly,the positive messages of these quilts are of brotherhood and respect.
For a Juried Art Show
For example,Let Us Breathe,(Political Quilts Twenty Twenty)shows a black man and a black woman dressed in African fabrics on a background of many different skin tones. In addition,a shiny red, white, and blue heart decoration speaks to their allegiance to the United States. In short,people can love their country and honor their ancestral roots simultaneously.
Let Us Breathe,20202, 37″ x 35″, $3200.
An Immigrant Couple
Furthermore,The Border Crossed Us shows an immigrant couple on a background of multicolored skin tones. Most importantly,many of the immigrants from south of the border are indigeous peoples.
The Border Crossed Us, 34″ x 30″ $3200.
Honoring Black Men is a smaller piece with the same theme of respect. In the samevein,a disrespect of one is a disrespect for all.
Honoring Black Men,2020, 11″ x 11.5″ $125.
More Political Quilts Twenty Twenty
Petite Field in Spring is a small art quilt highlighting immigrant workers.
Petite Field in Spring, 2020, 10″ x 12″, $125.
Essential is another small art quilt showing essential workers in a positive fun light.Furthermore, how would we have made it through 2020 without them.
Essential,2020, 9.5″ x 10.5″, $125.
Another fun piece, Star of the Show uses Guatemalan fabric for the lady’s dress.
Star of the Show, 10″ x 11″
In conclusion,these past years have been difficult due to the attacks on the truth, voting rights and the civil rights of the minority groups in this country. First of all, for our democracy to survive and thrive, we need a strong education system that is free to teach the truth. Furthmore,everyone’s vote and opinion needs to be counted. Lastly, let there be equal rights for all!
Clearly, political quilts have a long tradition. For example,quilters have long used fabric to express their political feelings and thoughts. However,the current time is no different. For example,one quilter recently embroidered the former president’s tweets onto a quilt.In short,to hand sew the president’s comments took more persistence and fortitude than I have.
A Politics-Free Zone
Above all,as a politically aware person in these recent years, my art became a refuge of comfort from the news.In other words, a politics-free zone. Most importantly,I had spent my career teaching underserved marginalized groups. In addition,I created fair situations for all genders and nationalities to learn. Similarly, getting students to blossom and prosper is in my bones.
However,during the shelter in place, I remembered that I had done some earlier political quilts. After that, I looked through my photo files, In short,I surprised myself by the number of political quilts I had made.
Before I was an Artist
I had quilted for many years. Yet,I mark my art quilt career as beginning in 2010. However,I found several political quilts that I made before that date. For example,in 1969, I had a green Ecology Action Flag decal on my small green car. Clearly,this piece is a reminder of that. Ecology Action began in my home town, Palo Alto,California.
Ecology Flag,2008, 33 ” x 26″
Whimsical Quilts
First of all,Bamanos, Let’s Go With Obama celebrates the election of the first Black president of the United States. Clearly, it is a nod to Spanish, vamanos(Let’s go) and Obama at the same time. What a fun whimsical quilt!
Bamanos, Let’s Go With Obama,2009, 33″ x 30″
This whimsical quilt, Teaching the Toughest Job You’ll Ever Love was created in 2009. Clearly the teaching is a difficult job. We don’t need politicians telling educators how to teach.
In retrospect,I originally thought these quilts were small.They are much smaller than the double size bed quilts I had been making.
Teaching the Toughest Job You’ll Ever Love,2009, 33″ x 30″
2010-2014
Clearly,my first art quilts celebrated travel as an enriching activity. For example, I traveled to Europe yet I met Africans, Iranians and Israelis among others. Furthermore the conversations that I had with them gave me a better understanding of their views. Their experiences in the world were different too. People are people. But at times,we see things differently. In short,I wanted to celebrate meeting people.
African fabrics
Similarly,one of my first art quilts,Travel Enriches used African fabrics.
Travel Enriches, 2010, 42″ x 42″, $2100.
Likewise, African Crabs does too.
African Crabs, 2010,26″ x 26″ $1500. fabric art quilt
Black and White Quilts and a Pop
In 2010 I made I also made, Together, We All Win. A figure made of international fabrics lies on a black and white background.
Together, We All Win, 2010, 50″ x 33″, art quilt
Clearly, Girls Play was a tip of the hat to Title 9 that extended all rights to girls in athletics. However, this opportunity was unavailable when I attended high school.
Girls Play,2010, 35′ x 38″ $2100.
Mexican Folk Dancing
For example,with Homage to a Dancer (2009) and Market Day I wanted to express the color and movement of Mexican Folk Dancing.Similarly, they honor women.Yet,I wanted a male representative. Furthermore,men dance in El Danzante de Los Viejitos from Michoacan, Mexico.
Market Day,2009, 56″ x 45″$3100.
In Conclusion
To summarize,when one honors underrepresented peoples as I have with my quilts, then I am definitely making political quilts.
Recently someone mentioned to me at my studio that she had some fabric that she had had for a long time. She suggested that she should get rid of it solely for the reason that she hadn’t used it. While we all have our own rules of engagement, that is not one of mine. If I like a fabric I will keep it until I can find a good project for it. In this posting I share examples of using fabrics saved for a long time.
Using Saved Fabrics
As soon that visitor commented on her long saved fabrics, I lead her to see this recently completed piece. I explained that I had had the fabric with wavy yellow, green and turquoise lines for a long time. I could not remember where or when I had gotten it.
Over the years I would try to see if it fit in other quilts. But each time I put it back on the shelf. Often this whimsical fabric didn’t fit the style or mood of the piece or maybe the color wasn’t just right. Here, however, everything works;the colors, the movement, the whimsical style.
Sunset Through the Forest random piecesSunset Through the Forest, an art quil
ATLAS in Rose
I recently completed the abstract art quilt, ATLAS in Rose. The rose, reddish rose and gold fabric is a high quality fabric that I had had for a long time. Yet I hadn’t used it. The red and rose colors would not play well with other colors. In spite of that, I kept it. Luckily, I did. Because it went perfectly with this black and white scientifically inspired art quilt. It added color and just the right amount of movement to the art quilt.
rose and gold fabricATLAS in Rose , finished art quilt
Fabric with Small Boxes
The following red, yellow and green fabric with small boxes is another piece that I liked. I didn’t know how I would use it. But I had to have it. The colors and movement spoke to me. I ended up for saving it for many years. In Cactus Dreams, the colors fit. The geometric boxes mirror the checks in the Guatemalan and in the checkerboard fabrics.
fabric with green,yellow,red and boxesCactus Dreams,detail,abstract art quiltCactus Dreams,abstract art quilt
In Conclusion
I finished these three art quilts in the past year. Without realizing it, I probably mentioned to the visitor that I had used some saved fabric. Thankfully, I had kept the fabric. Because they worked perfectly!
More than ever Etsy shops list an incredible number of unique handmade and vintage items. If you shop Etsy you will find joy. Art quilts are listed on my site. Currently, I have also listed vintage items from my family. I have kept some of my own pieces for so long they are now vintage. http://annbmayartquilts.etsy.com/
A Funny Story
Back in the 1970’s, the Bob Newhart Show was a popular sitcom. I remember a funny setup. His receptionist dates an older man. She goes to his apartment for the first time. She says, “I love what you have done with these antiques.” Her date answers,”Thank you. They weren’t antiques when I bought them.” Similarly,I am there now.
Sadly the Shop Etsy Find Joy videos are no longer available.
Vintage Clothing
Vintage clothing is at least twenty years old. Similarly,recent listings include vintage clothing and vintage jewelry. Many of these are one owner items. They come from the closets of my grandmother, mother and mother in law or myself. Many items from the 1940 to the 1980s.
I made this jacket for myself. First I sewedthe fabrics together. Then I cut out the pattern. I wore the jacket several times. Then I realised that I am not a jacket person. I much prefer sweaters or a warm hooded coat. May someone else enjoy wearing this piece!
Assemblage – 3D Collages
During the pandemic shut downs, I created some assemblage pieces. They are 3D collages. Some are art in a box. Similarly, due to the smaller size they are minimalist. I inherited several antique keys that I added to my pieces.
Be ready to present your Laser Statement to the world.
Being ready with a short laser statement about one’s passion or business is essential. By definition, random encounters can happen anyway and anytime. Such positive interactions keep life interesting. For many they can be a way to interact with the public in a new way.
A laser statement is a necessity for artists or others to quickly explain to a novice what they do. Art quilts are still a new art form that many are not familiar with. Each conversation is an opportunity to share and educate. I didn’t expect a conversation about fabric to occur while accessing tech support. But I was ready with a laser statement when that happened.
Anxiety
Calling the tech support is always caused anxiety for me. This is mainly because I am not very techie. I do maintain my own website. However, I am not always unsure of the words that describe what I do. Knowledge of the vocabulary aids communication about an issue. That is what I lacked.
But I learned through use. I actually feel better now that I understand what certain words (browser, domain name,modem) mean. I have learned a bit more about what they are talking about. In their defense, tech support is always polite and patient.
Lost in space, the way I feel when I call tech support.
Caught Off Guard
Coming from a position of anxiety, these conversations caught me off guard. Yet they left me pleasantly surprised. After my questions had been answered, the tech support engaged me in a conversation about my work. I am always ready to share my passion for fabric art. It paid off to be ready to present my laser statement to the world.
This first conversation began when the male support person mentioned that he sewed costumes. He had several questions about making them. He made the costumes for ComicCon which sounded appropriate for his age. We talked fabric. I mentioned that the shiny fabrics that the costumes were made out of were the most difficult fabrics to work with. I said that 100% cotton is the easiest to work with. He caught on quickly and said, ” I should start with cotton, then, to develop my skills.” I agreed. He appreciated my willingness to share my knowledge freely with him. I thoroughly enjoyed this unlikely conversation.
Rogue Wave, an abstract art quilt, a fav of one of my random encounters
Art Afficionatos are Everywhere
Another conversation took place when the male tech support person asked me what an art quilt was. I was ready to present my laser statement to the world. I explained simply that an art quilt uses traditional quilting techniques to make wall art. He shared that he was very interested in art and loved spending time in art galleries.
I often refer people to my website. But it stuck me as funny to say “Take a look at my website.” Because we had literally just been working on it. It is fun to share my work especially to the uninitiated. He was pleasantly surprised at what he saw. Feedback about his favorites was appreciated.
His favorite of my abstract pieces especially Rogue Wave convinced me that he was a true art fan. Hopefully, the art quilt world has a new convert. Maybe in the future he will be open to search out more art quilts and fiber art shows. There is much power in being ready to present your laser statement to the world.
Follow these step by step instructions using Sunset Through the Forest,an abstract art quilt as an example to create an abstract art quilt.
Getting Started
Choose Your Colors
First, I prefer to choose a few contrasting colors. Then I search through my materials for fabrics, decorative yarns and threads in those colors. Sometimes I also choose lighter and darker hues of the same colors.
Make Details with Decorative Threads.
Next, it is fun to make shapes with the decorative threads. For this piece I used the decorative threads to make several parallel lines on the fabric. I cut long strips and sewed the decorative threads in long lines.Then I randomly cut the long strips into 3 or other odd number of pieces. Creating texture- done!
Several different examples of decorative details
On the Design Wall
Next, I display the potential finalist fabrics on my design wall. My favorite choices are fabrics with movement and interest. Then, I also make sure that they are places for eyes to rest by including solid colors.
Trying out green and yellow bits of fabric randomly placed on the design wall
Balancing Colors
Next, balance out the colors and textured pieces so that they are not all on one side of the piece. Don’t be afraid to take a break to come back to view the work with fresh eyes. A fresh look is always helpful in looking for ways to improve a piece. How will one’s eyes move around the art work? Eliminate fabrics if necessary.
Balancing the fabrics and colors
Sewing Smaller Pieces Together
Begin to sew small pieces of fabrics together. Then remember to balance colors and fabrics so that they are equally spaced about the piece. Use this advantage of a design wall to view your whole piece.
Small pieces are sewn together
Sewing More Pieces Together
Continue sewing pieces together. Keep checking for balance of fabrics, colors, and textured pieces.
finished top, Sunset Through the Forest
Finishing
Lastly,I scribble quilt the three layers together to create an added level of movement. Scribble quilting is a technique I named. I use a walking foot to create a flowing quilting line by moving the quilt side to side while quilting. Make sure that the quilting is also balanced and equally fills the space. Then add a facing. Turn to the back and handsew the facing to the back. Name and sign your art!
Sunset Through The Forest, finished art quilt,32″h x 34″w
In Conclusion
These are the steps that I generally follow to create my abstract art quilt pieces. They represent my process at this time. It will probably change over time. Your process is probably unique to you.
Learn how to make a fabric landscape collage quilt using the fabric layering technique. In general, this art form is accessible to all skill levels of art quilts.
Make a Fabric Landscape Collage Quilt
Introduction
In this post you will learn how I make a fabric landscape collage quilt. Basically,the fabric collage is covered with tulle netting and then, free motion quilted together.
Free motion quilting is a high level quilt skill. Before I learned about fabric layering, I had almost given up on perfecting my skills at it. Yet, I found the fabric layering technique very forgiving for practicing free motion quilting. It became a great way for me to advance my skill level of this technique . Try it. Maybe it will help you too.
Topics Covered
How to create a fabric landscape collage art quilt
Follow a step by step procedure
Seascapes- Underwater Fantasies!
Trees with Color! Texture! Movement!
How to free motion quilt successfully!
Conclusion
How to create a Fabric Landscape Collage Art Quilt
The fabric layering technique uses a table rather than a design wall to design. First, I create a scene. Next I cover it with tulle netting. Then I free motion sew the three layers(back, batting,top) together.I use this technique for my Nature portfolio; landscapes,seacapes, mountains,and trees. I prefer to create a more impressionistic scene than realistic view.
Many beginners are encouraged to find a photo that they like in order to copy it for their first fabric collage. A photo to copy may be helpful at the beginning stages. As my artist career advances, I find a photo more restricting than freeing. My art is all about color, texture, and movement. To me copying a photo creates a flat rendition of the scene. That is not the effect that what I am going for.
First Steps
To begin, I choose the fabric that will create the background. Fore most, I prefer to choose a fabric with some dimension already on it, ie. light and dark spaces. For example, if I choose a dark background, then I will choose lighter colored materials for my plants, fish, rocks and other items . On the other hand, if I choose a lighter background, then I will choose darker colored scenery.
In this photo, the quilt sandwich is ready. Choose the backing fabric. Place it on a table. Cover it with batting, the soft center part of a quilt. Place the background fabric on top. Iron each layer so that they will lie flat.
step 1 Begin with a quilt sandwich; back fabric, batting and background fabric
Step 1
First, the back fabric is flat on the table. Next, a piece of batting is laid on top of that. Clearly, you can see the white batting hanging a bit over the edge. Then I laid a piece of moddled commercial fabric on top. The piece is about 14″ by 14″36 cm x36 cm. I let the fabric’s different shades of coloring do part of the work in creating interest and depth in the piece. Finally, I lightly baste the layers together with an Avery glue stick.
step 2
Step 2
Next, I cut out light colored rocks. I placed them in the foreground. Then I cut out irregularly shaped dots of different colored batik fabric for the jellies,or jelly fish. I place the jellies as if they are swimming in the current.
step 3 Add plants with fabric and decorative threads
Step 3-
Next, I cut out plants and place them between the rocks. Next, I add decorative threads for the tenacles of the jellies. Adjust the decorative threads so that it looks like the water is moving them. After that when everything is in its place, I baste the pieces in place with a tiny dab of glue. I use a long pin to place the smallest spot of glue under the fabric. This helps me keep the dot of glue small.
step 4 Cover with tulle netting and pin down.
Step 4
Next I cover the scene with tulle netting. Then I pin the tulle in place. The tulle is really hard to see in this photo. Similarly, it usually appears almost invisible when the piece is finished. I am not fussy about the color of the tulle that I use. A black tulle will add a muted tone to your piece. A lighter color like white becomes more invisible in the final piece. Some tulle now comes with sparkles. This works especially well for water scenes. The sunlight seems to reflect off of the water!
step 5 Started free motion quilting.
Step 5
Next, I free motion quilt the three layers together. The first step is to lower the feed dogs on my machine. Primarily, this allows me to move the piece smoothly however I want. The quilting creates another level of movement. If the feed dogs( the little metal teeth) on your machine aren’t adjustable, cover them with a plastic attachment to free motion quilt. Tightly hold the edges of the quilt taut and smooth while quilting. I like to create plants moving in the water with my quilting. However, you may choose whatever you like.
The art quilt is completed.
Step 6
Finally, I finish the piece by zigzagging the edges twice. However, for larger pieces, I prefer sew a facing to the front and turn then turn the facing to the back. Then I hand stitch it down.
Finally, here is a photo of the back of the piece. The machine stitching is easily viewed.
It is easier to see the quilting from the back.
Seascapes
Seascapes are basically a variation on landscapes but underwater. My seascapes are often underwater fantasies of marine life and plants.
Above all, marine life is front and center in my home town of Santa Cruz, California. For example, this is where three young princes of Hawaii first surfed in North America on July 19, 1885 on large redwood boards. In addition, Santa Cruz is at the top of the Monterey Bay with the world class aquarium just an hour away. The area is also home several national marine research facilities. Surf City, U.S.A takes its marine life seriously.
Art ranks High too.
On the other hand, Santa Cruz is also listed as fifth in the nation as an artistic destination. That is to say that many artists live in the county. That is to say that marine life and art come together in this newer genre of art quilts. Come be inspired to try it yourself!
A Visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium
When I first started making marine life art quilts, I visited the Monterey Bay Aquarium. In other words, I wanted to observe the fish. What do their mouths look like? What shapes are their tails? My intention was to create a accurate picture of the sea life. However, that idea went out the window very quickly. In conclusion, there is no one way that a fish’s mouth looks. The variety of shapes and forms is endless. My underwater fantasy portfolio was born. In addition, I was free to create an animal in any way I wanted because there was probably a fish that looked that way somewhere.
Deep Blue Sea 37″ x 24″ 2020 $2100.
Sea Dragons at the Aquarium
Similarly, I saw my first sea dragon at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. I couldn’t believe my eyes. Was that a plant? Was that an animal? It was impossible to tell. I was fascinated. Ever since that day, I have been incorporating sea dragons into my art.
Technically, sea dragons are cousins to the sea horse. What? It is hard to believe. Sadly for us humans, the sea dragon display is not longer at the aquarium. Happily for the sea dragons, they have been returned to their natural habitat in the waters of the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary. However, these fascinating animals may be on display at another aquarium.
I incorporate color, texture and movement into my art quilts while using the fabric layering technique.Plants and animals may stand out or barely be seen depending on their color. In the same way, lots of thick decorative threads add texture and life to the underwater rocks. In addition, in Sea Dragons in the Golden Kelp, I created the animals by thread painting on Sulky water soluble fabric stabilizer. This thread painting technique creates lacy and leafy animals. Free motion quilting adds movement by creating plant life that seems to move with the currents. Use one’s imagination to see animals among the plants.
Violet Seascape 33″ x26″ 2020 $2100.
Furthermore, underwater fantasies lend themselves to the use of sheer fabrics. Who knows what shadowy beings are lurking in the depths? Shiny, reflective fabrics cut into the shapes of fish and marine life add a dimension that often only becomes visible is a certain light. What a surprise! What fun!
Large Spotted Fish 15″ x 15″
Trees
Furthermore,I use this technique often to create some of my most favorite art quilts highlighting trees.
Vacant Lot 43″ x 31″
First of all, trees in art quilts are my most popular pieces. Above all, everyone can relate to the shape and various colors of trucks and leaves. Vacant Lot, is an early example of one of my tree art quilts. Furthermore, five of my art quilt trees hang permanently in local Santa Cruz County Kaiser Permanente Medical facilities.
Tree Friendly Town
I live in a tree friendly town. That is to say that Santa Cruz, California is part of the Tree City USA program. My county is full of fruit tree orchards as well as redwoods. Furthermore, the Spanish explorers saw their first redwood tree in Santa Cruz County. In addition, California’s first state park, Big Basin is also in my county. That is a lot of trees for the second smallest county in California.
Of course, many locales are tree friendly places even if they not they are enrolled in the national urban tree program. We can all relate to trees and leaves; the forms they take and the shapes they make. Creating trees lets me explore and expand my use of texture, color, and movement. Let me take this opportuntity to share my love of trees.
Use of Color
Young children and other people know what color a tree should be. We understand the general shape of a tree including the wide variety of sizes and forms. Change the color of a tree to an unnatural color. Our brains will still recognize that it as a tree. This is what makes it fun for an artist.
Teal colored tree trunk and branches ? Not so common nor are violet branches. I have received such a positive response from the movement of leaves extending beyond the edges of the art quilt that I have continued to do that.
Along the Path 34″ x 22″ soldAt the Edge of the Grove
29″ x 26″
What could be more fun than orange branches!
Tree Along Creek 32″ x 27″
This tree along the creek has pale colored branches with bluish green tint from couched yarns and decorative threads. The pop of medium green comes from a piece of dress fabric from the 1940s.
Adding Texture
Celebrating Fall has branches made from a highly textured yet, loosely woven fabric. I couched decorative threads are on top of the fabric to add more interest. This same couching technique is also visible in Tree Along Creek and At the Edge of the Grove.
Celebrating Fall 33″ x 31″ 2019
Adding Movement
In Looking up at Dusk,flying leaves and twigs are carried along by the wind. While creating this piece, I actually toss some pieces onto the quilt top. Great fun! Great serenpidity!
Looking up at Dusk,31″ x 24″ 2017Overlook 35″ x 26″ 2018
In Overlook, I choose a green and white patterned fabric for the trunk and branches. I couched (zigzagged)decorative threads and yarn to the fabric before cutting out the shape of the tree. The white spaces on the fabric create movement. The curvy line quilting in the sky also adds action. The sky fabric is from an indigo dying class. Can you see the clouds moving across the sky?
How to Free Motion Quilt Successfully!
Free motion quilting is an advanced quilting technique. Free motion quilting is when the quilter is in charge of moving the quilt instead of the machine. Here are a few easy tricks for success.
You must be able to lower the feed dogs on your sewing machine. The feed dogs are the little metal teeth that help move the fabric through the machine. If your older machine doesn’t allow for this. The feed dogs may be covered with a plastic attachment.
Use a darning foot while quilting attach photo.
While free motion quilting, the quilter moves the fabric. While stitching the throttleusually used by your foot pedal , goes quickly and your hands move the fabric slowly. Remember ,the mantra is fast feet, slow hands.
Use Aurifil 50 wt. thread is by far the best thread to use for free motion quilting. It is strong and thin. It is available in many colors at better quilting shops. While it seems expensive, there is really a lot of thread on the spool. I once pieced and quilted a king size bed quilt using only 1 spool of thread. This product will give you the best result for free motion quilting.
Practice your skill. In order for the stitches to be the same size, practice moving the fabric slowly while making the foot pedal throttle go quickly. This skill is not difficult but it does take practice.
Conclusion
Fabric landscape and seascape fabric collages are a fun and exciting new art form. People of all ages may begin their art exploration with them. They are a forgiving way to practice fee motion quilting. They let me explore my love of Color! Texture! Movement! while using of redirected materials. A win-win situation.
Above all, I like using discontinued designer fabrics in my art quilts. These materials add texture and movement to my work. Most importantly as a fiber artist, I look for unique materials. Using discontinued fabrics from designers fits the bill.
Just as important is keeping these beautiful materials out of the landfill. Certainly,giving them a new life is important. First,I gather my materials first with no idea in mind as to how I will use them. Then I see which materials play well together.
Finding Discontinued Materials
About ten years ago I started volunteering at Fabmo,(Fabric and more). About the same time,I became more serious about making my fabric art. FABMO is a nonprofit center for redirecting fabrics. For example,dedicated volunteers make weekly trips to the San Francisco Design Center, a decorator hub. These materials are new and ready to be recycled. Furthermore,the public can buy these materials for a donation.http://fabmo.org
Inspiration from Discontinued Fabrics
The nonprofit recently moved to a warehouse in a Sunnyvale, California. After that,it was ready to offer selection days for the public. For example, items to choose from include discontinued items, fabric samples and details. The fabric is like none available in local quilt shops and fabric stores. It inspires me to see how the fabrics play with one another. At the same time,the volunteers are dedicated to reduce, reuse, and recycle fabrics. They search for new ideas to use the materials. Then they share these ideas on their newsletter. Check with your local decorators for similar opportunities.
Unique fabrics make Unique Art.
Autumn Comes to the Farm,an art quilt made from redirected fabrics, 20″ x 20″Desert Sands,21″ x 16″
Inspiration from Unusual Fabrics
The next step is to choose from the wide variety of materials that are available. Needlesstosay, the amount of possibilities is a bit overwhelming. Furthermore,the use of silk, linen and synthetics allows me to add texture to my art pieces. These fabrics can be a bit more difficult to work with than cotton. Unlike bed quilts, art quilts as wall art do not have to be washed. In other words, easy care materials like cotton are not mandatory.
Rusty Cans in the Wash,16″ x 15″Visions of New Mexico,3rd place award, 31″ x 26″
A Win Win Situation
Finally,I am very inspired by how these redirected materials play together. I really hope that you will search out sources for redirected materials in your area. It will add a spark to your art. It will create a decline in entries to the local landfill. What could be more of a win-win situation?https://annbaldwinmayartquilts.com/2019/08/adding-color-to-your-art-quilts/
Wetlands Wanderer,an egret in the wetlands Above all,notice the decorative threads at the bottom of the quilt. 28″ x 27″
Add Decorative Threads for Texture
Above all,decorative threads add texture to art quilts. Furthermore,texture is part of my mantra, Color! Texture! and Movement! Therefore, I take creating, finding and using texture very seriously. Above all for me, it is fun. I get excited about repurposing decorative ribbons and threads in my art quilts. I would like to take this opportunity to share some ideas.
My artistic path evolved about the same time I found Fabmo fabric and more https://www.fabmo.org/. Fabmo is a nonprofit that rescues fabric samples and materials from designers to keeping them out of the landfill. In addition,they make them available to the public. The charming decorative three dimensional details call to me. However, I discovered these threads quite by accident. For example,I accidently took some details apart. Most importantly, I discovered lovely threads and ribbons to add texture to my art quilts.
decorative detailsRibbons from disassembled details
Take Things Apart to find Decorative Threads for Texture
These small details add texture, fiber and interest to art quilts. However,some of the threads are quite long when disassembled. Lots of room for creativity. Make a small detail by twisting and folding longer threads. Decorative threads entered my art pieces. In addition, I use these decorative details to add 3D texture to both my abstract and nature inspired art quilts.
Cinnamon Threads, detail from an abstract art quilt detail of 23″ x 20″ art quilt
How Would You Use These Decorative Threads?
Red detailBeige detail and disassembled red detail
Some Examples of What I Did
In addition,here are a couple of photos of works in progress highlighting deconstructed fibers.
An egret, a work in progressfibers in a work in progress,
Helpful Hints
Not in the San Francisco Bay area with access to FABMO in Sunnyvale? Find interior decorators in your area. They will be thrilled to pass on their “outdated” details. Moreover,beautiful yarns can be found at garage sales. Leftover pieces of interesting yarns may also be found at yard sales or Goodwill. Decorative threads are available for purchase. Of course, interesting decorative threads are often sold at quilt shows. Does your local quilt guild have a flea market? Lots of good finds there.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, I hope that you will be inspired to try and incorporate more decorative threads into your art quilts. Therefore, please share your successes and advice. Above all, try something new.
Choosing a name for an art work is not an easy task. Yet, when the title of one’s art piece fits the work, it feels like pure genius.The title can capture the essence of the piece. What the artist wants to say or what the piece is about. I find it worth the effort. Yet, many times genius can elude us.
How To Name An Art Work
“Untitled- Number 325” The running joke of a prolific artist from a fiber group was just that. Untitled Number 325. That is how she answered when asked what the name of her latest piece was. She liked doing the work but not the naming part of it. So each piece was left unnamed.
On the other extreme,Brad Burkhart,a local clay sculptor created a lengthy group process to name a piece. He asks the group questions which lead to a consensus for the piece by consensus. He strongly supports and promotes this process. How to name an art piece can be a private or a public effort.
I Put on my Poetry Hat
Both of those processes feel unsatisfactory to me. I name my pieces by several different methods. My preferred method is to put on my poetry hat metaphorically. I try to think of an engaging title that adds to the viewer’s experience. What I was thinking about while making my art?
At times I think about what the piece looks like. People read all of my titles once they realize that they are engaging and interesting. Naming my art is an opportunity to share my creative vision and to engage with the audience. I don’t want to hand such an important element of my expression over to anyone else.
Here are some examples of my art and how and why they were so entitled.
What I Was Thinking About
Rogue Wave, an abstract art quilt, 36″ x 36″
A rogue wave or sneaker wave often hits the Central Coast of California in the winter. It is a large,strong, unexpected wave that can be very dangerous. While making this art quilt, warnings for rogue waves were being broadcast daily on the news. As my pieces included colors that reflected water and movement, I chose that title.
A Fitting Genre and Style
This art quilt is named Sherman Alexie Comes to Bookclub,
Sherman Alexie Comes to Bookclub is a modern piece inspired by the new membreño colors of black, white and rust. Mr. Alexie is a Native American author who writes about urban Indians. I thought that it was a good fit for this piece. Although it is a bit of an inside joke, if the audience doesn’t know Sherman Alexie .
Under the Savannah Shade using African fabrics, 36″ x 42″
Under the Savannah Shade is a bright abstract art quilt. The African fabrics in greens, oranges, and yellows reminded me of a hot summer’s day. Wouldn’t some shade be nice? The blue material provided that shade.
Descriptive Titles
When genius eludes us, a descriptive title will do. What do you see in the art piece? Does it remind you of something? What location is it inspired by?
Challenges
Under the Shady Tree,37″ x 25″Great Blue Heron at Dusk, 31″ x 25″Gridlock I, 33″ x 31″Gridlock II, 42″ x 36″
May I share some challenges to naming one’s art. Early in my art career, I named some pieces Gridlock I and Gridlock II. Gridlock II was juried into a “MAYHEM”show at the ARC Gallery in San Francisco. In spite of that honor, I couldn’t remember which piece was number I and which was number II. I decided to avoid numbering my art again. You may have a different opinion.
Naming a Series
Shore to Sky ZShore to Sky F
Yet, when I did a series of small abstract art quilts based on the colors of the sky meeting the land and water . I named them Shore to Sky A,B ,C through Z that presented no problems. Maybe the wider range of colors helped me differentiate the pieces better.
Conclusion
Part of being as artist is sharing one’s vision with the local community and the greater world. Naming one’s art can add to the presentation of our work. It is a personal statement. Do not miss this opportunity to connect with the public.
These are just some examples of how I named my art quilts. Were they helpful either directly or indirectly? Do you have some ideas of your own that you think worked well? Please share.
Winter Sunset, An abstract art quilt with lavander,pink, and grey colorsthe finished piece
Memories of Favorite Colors
Memories of favorite colors can stay with you throughout a lifetime. As a seven year old, I remember telling the neighbor lady that I wanted to be an artist when I grew up. My favorite colors were pink and yellow. I chose them both because I couldn’t decide which one I liked the better.
My goal of becoming an artist faded almost immediately. That idea didn’t resurface until much, much later after a 36 year career as an elementary school teacher. Yet, my memories of my favorite colors remained with me.
Elementary School
For several years while I was in upper elementary school, a ladies choir came to sing for our school. I don’t remember the music but what stuck with me were their dresses. The ladies all wore a solid color shirtdress that was most likely from their own closet. The affect of the variety of colors was intriguing to me. I was starstruck. I kept this memory for such a long time that I made myself a single color dress to wear to work many years later.
Shirt dresses possibly from Villager.
Memories of Favorite Colors,Age 13
My mother loved clothing and dressing nicely. I could always count on her for a lovely outfit for a Christmas gift . For my thirteenth Christmas, she surprised me with several items to mix and match in forest green and light blue. There was a green blouse with light blue flowers, a fluffy Mohair blue sweater,blue pants and a light blue skirt. I was in heaven. Those colors have stayed dormant within me although I haven’t done anything with them. Maybe the time is now right?
My mohair sweater looked like this only in light blue.
Memories of Favorite Colors -Chocolate Brown and Light Blue
Fast forward ahead to my life as a young wife. My husband and I enjoyed visited model homes to get inspiration for our own space. We were both enamored with a home decorated in dark chocolate brown colors with light blue accents. Again we didn’t act on our interest. But the memory of colors of that model home stayed with us both .
Memories of Colors-Purple
We all must admit that we have been influenced positively and at times negatively by our parents. My mother did not like purple. The purple of the 1960’s was more of a sickly lilac. I share her dislike for that color. It is not a color that blends well with our olive complexion. Here are some beautiful dresses in the color lilac. I must admit it is hard to dislike these stunning examples.
lilac dressThe lilac dress is in the middle.lilac dress
Other Shades of Purple
Much later a wider variety of purples became popular. Shades of purple that constrast well with many colors are a natural choice for my art. Here are some examples.
Splendid Fairy Wren, 30″ h x 25″ wUnder the Palapa, 27″ x 21″Shore to Sky E, 10″ x 10″Love in the Abstract, an abstract art quilt in purples and pinks,24″ x 26″Winter Sunset, An abstract art quilt with lavander,pink, and grey colors,the finished piece
Conclusion
These are some of my memories of favorite colors that have stayed with me for many years. Thank you for letting me share. I assume that others also have fond memories of shades from their childhood and beyond. Do you have any color favorites of your own.? Feel free to share them here.
