Surround yourself with those who share your passion.
My fiber art critique group, Joined by Stitch is a perfect example of that adage. Eight spirits work through different stages of their artistic journeys, creating beautiful examples of technique, message and visual delight. Our latest group exhibit, “Outside the Ordinary,” is on exhibit through May 31, 2019, the Sidell Gallery at the Essex Art Center. The well lit, white and brick walls of this Lawrence gallery is a beautiful setting. Let me know your impressions if you visit.
Waterfall (pictured above) debuts in “Outside the Ordinary.” Made of wool and silk felt stitched by machine and hand, this piece definitely highlights the latest bends my fiber art journey. Four of the six pieces on view were finished in 2018 – I guess I have been productive. At our Joined by Stitch group exhibit last spring, the work was more representational and used more dyed and painted woven cotton and silk.
In the Center’s Beland Gallery, you can also see work from artists who have shown at El Taller Cafe – a moving and shaking caffeinated venue in Lawrence that seeks to feed the community stomach and soul. Wow! The energy, talent and passion bounce off the walls. At the opening reception, it was great to meet some of the artists and ask questions about their work.
Blending different media and different perspectives gives the Essex Art Center a vibrancy that certainly reflects its mission. Often, fiber art hangs out in its own world. I’m delighted to see our work with painters, mixed media creators.
How lucky I am to be surrounded by passionate people.