Meet Fiber Artist Jeanette Kelly

Jeanette is an incredible person and artist. Her time has truly come to share herself through her artwork with others, and I am happy to be here to watch her come into her own. Learning technology as it is used to promote ourselves as artists is one of her current goals, and I wasn't sure that she was going to make it, but she did. Jeanette is the last of this little series of quilt artists that have pieces in my new book....

Now, in her own words:

I work in fiber because of the aesthetic appeal to the senses. The textures and patterns, when combined with color, merge into a medium of both tactile and visual pleasure. I love the fabrication process whether dyeing, silkscreening, piecing or appliqueing, using silks, wool and cottons or even paper.

Originally I was drawn to the human form and worked exclusively in the areas of art clothing and jewelry. In the past few years I have focused on art quilts and have recently returned to my love of dimensional pieces. Whether fabric figures or my newest passion fabric vessels..it's all about the fiber and color.

My inspiration comes from both visual and internal reactions to experiences. Sometimes I am inspired by my photographs or sketches, writings or ideas, and sometimes tactile or visual contact with the materials. The resulting work can range from representational to abstractions.

I value the feelings and insight viewers bring to my work, although their interpretation may not match my original inspiration, the importance lies in their having created personal connection and meaning.

We Interupt this Show....

Hi All- I have just returned from Spring Quilt Market in MN -- had a blast, and the kitties are certainly glad to have me home. I know that I have some catching up to do -- Cindy's bio and filling you in on the special (really fun) treat I found at market to have as the final give-away in the Trail-Marker contest-- BUT, on checking in with my Twitter friend ParkCityGirl, I found that her own Spring Festival is in full swing. Last time I had such fun I have to interrupt my own show to jump in and join the fun. This year I only think it's appropriate to share the quilt that's on the cover of my new book!

The name of this piece is Garden Party--- and since each of the projects in my book give instructions on how to fabricate, fun embellishments this one shares just what can be done with a bit of yarn and some chenille stems (pipe-cleaners for us older crafters). The stories behind the creation of a book can be ten-fold, and then add to that the great people that help pull it all together and well there are tons of stories, but really the best one is that this fun technique was shared with me by my good friend and fellow quilt artist Jeanette Kelly. Her work is wild and wooly and well, 3D! But, sharing is what it's all about --- thanks Jeanette & thanks Amy for having this great festival once again!





Sunday-May 30th is the last day to get entered into my Trail-Marker Give-Away-- check it out!