Contemporary Quilts
Around this time last year I received a request from the president of the Prairie Crocus Quilt Guild of Kindersley, Saskatchewan to participate as their featured guest artist of the guild’s quilt show, in the 2010 Kindersley Centennial celebrations. I had quite a large space allotted to me and therefore chose to install a display featuring many of my traditional quilts from the past, as well as some of my more recent art quilts. The display was quite well received by the public but for me it was truly an eye-opener.
Hand Applique, Hand Quilted, Hand Dyed...
As I began to set up my various displays, I realized how diverse the work was. Although I have only been quilting since 2000, after the closing of my shop called “Country Cottage Needleworks”, there was a wide selection of styles and techniques that I had not really recognized before. My true passion lies in traditional needlework and throughout my quilting you will see evidence of this in the applique and embroidery that is often included in the work.
Traditional Farmhouse Quilts
Another thing that I had not realized was how prolific I had been in the last ten years. There were quite a few quilts to hang and of course, there were still plenty more at home, as well as pieces that I had given as gifts. I was actually a bit shocked when I finally finished setting up this exhibition and stood back to view my work. Did I really make all of this in the last ten years? It was hard to believe but there was the proof right in front of me. I think this is something we all need to do, as artists and craftspeople – have a retrospective of our past works and step back for a moment to recognize our accomplishments and the potential growth demonstrated throughout our work.
Shibori, Fabric Dyeing, Artless Fabrications
It’s not so strange that I’m reminiscing about my time in Kindersley last year as my touring work “artless fabrications” will be making a stop in Kindersley this month, beginning on May 1st through May 23rd. The exhibition will be on display at Caleb Village and the Kindersley Arts Council has asked me to do a guest appearance on May 9th. I will be giving a special presentation on the background and inspiration leading up to the creation of the artwork, as well as sharing the personal stories of some of my favourite pieces. I will follow up with a question/answer period to give the audience an opportunity to find out more about specific works in the collection. I’m hoping that the event will be well attended, and if you are in the area, please stop by to view the show.
“artless fabrications” May 1-23, 2011, Caleb Village, Kindersley, SK
“artless fabrications – the creative journey” Artist talk presented by Carol Schmold, May 9, 2011, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., Caleb Village, Kindersley, SK.