By A Thread

Paper Piecing

2012-02-13T14:25:00.000-08:00

Well it has been five months since I've made a post and lots of art has taken place. I had fun making a paper quilt with my dearest friend and art partner, Nyls. The work was exhibited at the Berkeley Art Center for approximately two months last fall. The collaboration involved Nyls drawing trees and I stitched the paper quilts together. Here's what it looks like.

It has the appearance of Eucalyptus trees peeking through the East Bay Hills on a foggy morning. We painted paper, stitched it, cut it apart, sandwiched it between two pieces of vellum and stitched it again.

As a teaching artist the trend is continuing as I prepare to work with families in Alameda County. I'll be conducting workshops at Dublin Library on March 3, Union City Library on March 10th and Newark Library on March 24th. If you live in the San Francisco area drop by and join the fun. Times vary so check the Alameda County Library website for details.

These workshops are in connection with the Art is Education Program and addresses the theme of "Creating A Better Future Together". These are samples of the work we'll be making together. These are 8 1/2" blocks using assorted scrapbook papers, magazine papers, markers, pens, crayons, etc.

The blocks are attached and make a 9 block or more paper quilt. There are three layers to this 9 block paper quilt and it illustrates the quilting concept quite well.

Starting tomorrow I'll begin my In Home Artist in Residency Program and I'll be posting what I am doing so it will be just like visiting me if I were in an art center sharing my work. Please feel free to share you thoughts and ideas.

Personal Stories Rewind

2011-09-23T20:25:00.000-07:00

Well my January vision for myself was to be in Kaunas Lithuania about now but as with so many things, life had other plans for me. But I can truthfully say that the journey to not getting there has been wonderful. I learned about various grant opportunities even if I didn't get one. I taught myself to make a video so I could plead for money on Kickstarter. Didn't reach my goal on that either. I figure folks were not really interested in the project and I can always use that information to get better next time. But I remain thankful to Bertrijs Sterk of the European Textile Network for letting me know about the Kaunas Textile Biennial. She has been EXTREMELY (and I mean that in all caps) supportive in my efforts to get to Kaunas. An additional thanks to Virginija Vitkiene, curator of the Personal Stories Rewind project, for her support and encouragement throughout the process.

But my travel efforts did not seem to fall into place and now I know it was with reason since my sister's husband, Micah Reynols, lost his battle with pancreatic cancer on Thursday morning and I am needed here more than I was needed there.

In the meantime, many wonderful opportunities continue to come my way. The Personal Stories Rewind Project has been exciting to participate in in and I am including one of my favorite pieces in the project. I had the chance to lecture at a couple of guild meetings this summer and this pieces was among the best received works in my presentation. You will be able to see all of the pieces on the opening page of my website on Sunday.

Downtown is 58" x 51.5" and includes several found objects, photo transfers, thread writing and machine quilting. It reminds me of my childhood when we dressed up on Saturday to go shopping. Of course this is reminiscent of the time period but it was also a safety factor for "Negroes" so we would be less suspect to shop keepers. This is all part of my personal story of growing up in the segregated south of the 1950's and 1960's.

You will be able to see the work of other artists participating in the project by visiting this link.

http://www.bienale.lt/2011/?lang=en

I'll keep you posted on my other upcoming projects including the 1st Annual Cultural Arts Award Ceremony and Quilt Exhibit honoring Faith Ringgold beginning Thrusday October 6, 2011 through December 2, 2011 at Aaron Davis Hall Center for the Performing and Visual Arts, West 135t Street at Convent Avenue, New York, NY. The show is curated by Dr. Myrah Brown Green. Also I'll be showcasing the Paper Quilt Project opening in October 15, 2011 at the Berkeley Art Center. The paper quilt for this project was made in collaboration with partner, Nyls Jongewaard. This exhibit is curated by Lena Wolff. I'll be showing these pieces after they open for exhibit.

This week was the closing of the Civil War Quilt Exhibit at the McMinn County Living Heritage Museum in Athens, TN. I'll be showing that quilt when I get it back later this month.

In the meantime, enjoy this first day of Fall 2011 and be good to yourself. Here's to Micah Reynolds and all his good deeds to so many people.

Paper Quilt

2011-07-01T20:36:00.000-07:00

Starting this month I'll be posting more frequently as I prepare for the Paper Quilt Project. I've been invited to collaborate with an artist of my choice to make work for exhibition at the Berkeley Art Center in October. The exhibit will include a catalog and I'll be posting about the process including images. I'll be collaborating with my husband and fellow artist Nyls Jongewaard. The theme of the project is interdependence or interconnectivity. We are looking at relationships between people, places, the environment and the economy. If you have ideas about the topic let me know. I promise to keep better track of the comments. As always thanks for checking on me. If you are on Twitter you can also follow me there.

In the meantime, this piece is in the initial stage for my last Lithuania piece that will be about the 70's. I'm looking at old photos of me with my Afro and platform shoes. Gee I wish I had kept those. Right now I'm excited about including clothing in work along with imagery, words and anything else I can find that fits the theme.

Happy Fourth of July weekend and happy art making to all.

Separate Worlds

2011-06-19T12:18:00.000-07:00

Marion working on Downtown Story Quilt--yes, this is a full size dress, hat and gloves.

First let me thank you all for your comments. It is nice to see your interest in the workshops. We certainly had lots of fun. Today I'm sharing my latest project Separate Worlds, a six part story quilt project that is headed for Lithuania late this summer for a fall exhibit for the 2011 Textile Biennial in Kaunas, Lithuania. I am also asking you to consider pledging to this project on the Kickstarter fundraising platform. See this link for more information. Any amount will help and you get a reward depending on the category you select.

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/677269521/separate-worlds

Please share information about the project as I pursue this method of presenting my work to a larger audience.

Now for a different story. I was lucky to be a semi-finalist for a library public art project in New Orleans earlier this year. I wasn't selected but I certainly had fun learning more about their jazz/music traditions. Following are images for one of the mini quilts (maquettes) I made. I plan to make them to full size and develop them more later this summer. There will be three connected pieces. I'm still thinking about the Mardi Gras Indians and how to present them.

This is the second piece before I stitched it. For the final pieces I'll add more detail for the figures. These were just to get the idea across.

While researching this work I became aware of the rich diversity of musical forms for New Orleans and I look forward to getting them completed and I will be sharing them on my updated website.

Don't forget to check my Kickstarter project and please make a pledge for any amount. This is the new way for each of us to be art patrons and benefactors.

MOAD FIBER PLAYTIME

2011-05-26T11:00:00.000-07:00

FIBER POSTCARD MANIA

The Textural Rhythms exhibit at the Museum of the African Museum has come and gone but there were so many exciting moments that it has taken me a while to calm down from the beauty of it all. In March I lead three art quilt workshops that started with fiber postcards, a mainstay of my short workshop program. Students who are interested in art, fiber, thread and needle work find themselves inspired and the quilt projects easy to accomplish no matter their skill level. I usually do the sewing and introduce them to using new materials and using a sewing machine. Some students attended all three workshops and made several projects for themselves and for gifts. I am looking forward to seeing and working with these creative students again in the future.

No matter how organized I try to be I always manage to forget something. For the first workshop I forgot my sewing feet and thread. I left them in the studio nicely packed in a plastic bag. Thank goodness for an understanding and accommodating husband. He made the 40 minute drive from our home in Castro Valley to San Francisco to bring these essential items so I could actually conduct the class. Thanks Nyls.

Niambi and her mother Ora came to all three workshops and were very prolific. Ora has a natural ability to create fabulous mask and portraiture quilts. She gravitated toward using imagery within the fabric to drive the design of her pieces. It was a delight to see her work.

Ora started saying she didn't know what to do but she moved past that quickly and designed some dynamic pieces using ethnic fabrics. She also began exploring what type of sewing machine she would use in the future. Mother and daughter used this workshop as a time to share and develop a mutual interest in fiber. It was great to work with them.

Deborah helped save the day when she used her iphone to provide music for the workshops. Thanks girlfriend!..She created a variety of work including postcards, a 12" square mini quilt and started designing a memory quilt for her father. I demonstrated making photo transfers via computer and scanner in the second workshop.

Anita and I know each other from African American Quilt Guild meetings. She is an experienced sewer and used this experience to create a variety of work. Like me she has a background in making garments. She was also interested in embellishing using beads and other materials. She came to all three workshops too and by now has probably completed many additional fiber projects.

These events have a funny way of connecting people who didn't even know each other. Patty came to two workshops and made fiber postcards and a 12" mini quilt that included a nature photo transfer. Unfortunately I didn't get a photo of the piece but I remember it well. Patty and another student in the second class had mutual acquaintances at work and had lots to share although they did not know each other prior to the class.

Allison watched attentively as I worked on he postcard. She was only able to attend one class because of inevitable Saturday time conflicts. I wish her well on her expressed desire to make a baby quilt for a family member.

Although we had a small space we optimized every bit of it. Don't you just love the organized chaos of working with fiber!

My neighbor, Virginia, and I weathered the rainy weather to trek into San Francisco to indulge our passion for fabric. Once she got the hang of it she was very productive. I really like this African mini quilt she designed.

She and I both agree if we can't get to Africa anytime soon we'll just bring pieces of Africa to us. And so she did.

This nice fish card looks great and make us all want to go to the beach. Maybe it also helped us escape the rain and wind outside with fantasies of the great sea and San Francisco Bay.

I can't remember who made this beautiful piece but it looks like it was done by Christine since I see her signature at the bottom. It certainly has the spirit of the jazz quilts in the gallery.

For the third and final workshop Doris made this excellent mini quilt. She had a vision and implemented it with great care. She graciously send me this photo after she completed the piece at the end of the day. The final class was absolutely full after the workshop was designed in the San Francisco Chronicle as an event to attend. Whoopee!

Yes, we can thank Doris and Louis Armstrong for reminding us what that it is a wonderful and diverse world.

Another jazz inspired piece includes this work that uses paper, braid and photo transfers. Very nice.

Pride shows all over Deborah's face as she presents her ethnic mini quilt. So many nice beginnings.

For sure I'll treasure the creativity and energy expressed by the students in March. We were all uplifted by the process and the results.

Mardi Gras Sunday

2011-03-07T10:34:00.000-08:00

There's nothing like smiling faces to bring joy to our hearts. These students joined me on Sunday afternoon to celebrate Mardi Gras and participate in Art Is Education in the Castro Valley Library. Although it was a cool and cloudy afternoon we happily explored paper mask making with vigor. The child in all of us came to the forefront as we cut, pasted, attached sequins, feathers, ribbons and anything else we could creatively add to our parade of masks.

Feathers were a surprise hit with all students be they young or older. Older holiday papers worked wonderfully for providing a bit of sparkle to the masks. The golden star looks beautiful in contrast to the stripes on the youth mask.

All three girls make their own uniquely different masks that they can wear with pride and joy. I am always thankful to the parents to come in and help make these events so successful.

These quick learning students came near the end of class and managed to finish in plenty of time.

The same can be said for these two. She was still wearing her mask when I was leaving the building.

This gives new meaning to the description of Pretty in Pink.

This star crested mask is a standout as it sports the two golden feathers.

These are returning students from the Altered Book workshop. They have both grown and changed in the last few months. It was great to see them.

Now this is a star adult student who made these wonderful jungle/tropical themed masks. I love the monkey and she didn't think the piece was complete until she added the bananas. Donna and I have worked together for many years in book sales organized by Friends of the Library. I'm looking forward to having her help me with with future workshops now that I see how creative she is. Check out that iguana on top of the mask she's wearing. Makes me think of St. Thomas, Virgin Island.

My reliable partner in art, Marjorie made several masks as we prepared to have a display in the youth exhibition case. Marjorie and I did double duty last weekend as part of Alameda County Art Is Education programming. On Saturday we conducted an Altered Book workshop in Union City. Thanks Marjorie!

Here's the teaching duo. I was attempting to work with a youngster who was about 3 years old. He started to cry. This mask might have been just a bit too much for him, especially when you add all the beads. Overall we had a lot of fun and here's to Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebrations around the world.

EXPERIENCING THE NATURAL WORLD

2011-02-17T11:37:00.000-08:00

In December a lunar eclipse was visible in Castro Valley. My husband I dressed warmly and took our cameras outside to photograph the event. The eclipse was much clearer looking through my camera viewer than observing the eclipse with the naked eye. It was interesting to see the color changes as the eclipse progressed. A small quilt series might be possible with these images and now might be the time to look at using fiber paints to achieve these color blends. It sure was fun watching this natural phenomenon occur.

Isn't this a beautiful red color with the darker shades showing on the left and bottom. I'm happy I had a chance to see it and include it my memories of the natural world.

Now let's come back to earth and talk trees! I have always loved them and can't seem to pass one without taking a photograph. As a semi-finalist for the North Berkeley, CA Public Library I proposed a series of metal trees for two of the hallways that will be part of the library expansion. I was fortunate to be selected the finalist for the project and will be collaborating with my husband and fellow artist, Nyls Jongewaard who will be fabricating the designs for me. I get to learn about metal work with this project and it is an exciting expansion of my work.

This is the design board for the project. We'll be using a reverse applique concept with copper and stainless steel. I'll keep you posted on progress of the project including images of us at work.

These are quilts of trees in progress. The winter tree quilt is made in the same tones as the metal trees.

This piece is 30" x 31.5" and is straighter than this photo indicates. I really should be using my tripod.

Evening tree in progress

Spring tree in progress

I anticipate making ten or more tree series quilts which have a calming effect on me and others. I'd like to do some hospital commissions and these just might work. Following are some of my inspiration sources for the next pieces. Fortunately for me there are lots of green spaces in my little town and lakes too. Who knows I may try quilts with water themes as well.

These trees are on a local road near Lake Chabot. I like the idea of including the fence. Sometimes horses are grazing in the field. The region has Oak and Eucalpytus trees in abundance.

I can see this as an abstract with that bit of gold along with the various shades of green and greys.

Who says California doesn't have color with its seasons. Here's a bit of gold in December.

This is the inspiration tree for my public art project.

The last bits of red and gold before winter rains wash the leaves away.

A grove of Eucalyptus near Crow Creek Canyon

Winter trees inspiration

This wall and tree were near highway 680 approaching Walnut Creek. The shadow on the wall add to the texture along with the exposed earth next to vivid green grass. This is definitely next in the series.

This grove of trees are in Alameda right off the San Francisco Bay. They take lots of abuse from the winds blowing off the bay.

These show a bit of lean from the elements

All of these Alameda trees show the variation of sizes and tree structure that bring a richness to the environment. As Joyce Kilmer wrote

"I think that I shall never see
A poem as lovely as a tree..."

Enjoy the trees in your neighborhood.

LET THE SUNSHINE IN

2011-02-16T18:57:00.000-08:00


Leidalia's quilt

We had a couple of weeks of sunny, warm weather but it has returned to winter so I thought it would be fun to visually visit Costa Rica and dream of tropical sun and ocean breezes. The Costa Rican people were wonderful and I'm happy to say I still get email from many of them. I must also confess I am behind in my quilt exchange plan. One of my students has already sent me a beautiful reminder of what a good time I had. The interesting part was getting it in the mail with all the custom tape on it. Since the country has lots of unsecured coast I am sure U.S. Customs is very careful about what might be coming into the US. But it was just my lovely little quilt. Thanks Leidalia.

This is my postal envelope with the customs tape. I plan to use the stamps and tape in a project real soon.

Anyway, it's back to the tropics with some new images. This is a continuation of our Sunday Adventure that I wrote about earlier.

This is the only plane at the Limon International Airport. We passed the airport daily en route from our hotel to downtown. We visited inside where there was lots of local art but very few people to see it. There were just a few employees around the facility.

Carved art

The airport is only a few miles from our hotel and this island is very close by.

This is what the country side looks like near our hotel.

Ship near Limon

Some cool place where we stopped, who can remember the exact spot.

Love those fruits. The grapes were delicious and kept me hydrated.

As we made our way southward we continued to see an abundance of greenery and rivers.

These are banana plantations and play an important part in the local economy.

The road to Cahuita and Puerto Viejo was filled with wonderful sites including these green banana fields. Sometimes we would see plastic wrap around bunches of bananas as protection against bug infestations that would effect exports.

We didn't stop at this sanctuary but enjoyed looking at this sign. We had to keep moving to keep to keep our time schedule to allow as much daylight as possible for the round trip.

We enjoyed talking with this well regarded Calypso singer from Cahuita. He is now in his 80's and still selling CD's.

Beach before arriving at Puerto Viejo

Entrance to Caquita Park

Puerto Viejo is near Panama and we passed the road that leads to Panama just before we arrived in Puerto Viejo. This area is much more touristy than Puerto Limon. There were lots of vendors and younger visitors. Unfortunately there are other problems in this area and our guides didn't want us leaving the group alone. But we had fun shopping and looking around.

I will definitely be using this image in my portrait work.

These boats will make beautiful, scenic quilts in the future.

Consuelo is showing me a cocoa plant that I tried. It doesn't taste anything like the cocoa we cook with.

Ed is busy shopping for fiber goods.

Beach comber who agreed to being photographed. He is a great model for the Costa Rica series.

This beautiful older woman reminded me of my aunt Corine. She asked me if my family was from Panama. How's that for blending in.


Roast pork anyone? This smelled yummy but I thought I had better pass.

As twilight approached our guide loaded up the van and brought us home. As evening approached the police was much more visible. We were sure to have our seatbelts buckled as we passed through security points. We got home home just in time for dinner.

This is a grand estate that we all enjoyed. The gateway is very unique with the iquanas. There were several building on the grounds of the property and it all looked very lush. So we said farewell to eastern Costa Rica and headed back to San Jose the following morning via private bus. Our fellow passengers, a young couple didn't say a word to us the entire time. But nothing could spoil our fun as we talked and took more photos.
Until next time.

JUST A BIT OF FABRIC AND THREAD

2011-02-16T15:26:00.000-08:00

Marion and Ms. Mandela who is a visiting from South Africa

Visiting the Michigan State Museum Archives was educational and fun. There was so much cool stuff to see in addition to the quilts. The staff was wonderful and graciously lead tours of their collections. When I wasn't drooling over quilts I was wanting to see hats and shoes. I am also very honored to have my quilt "Angry Young Men" included in the museum collection. Whoopee!

Stacks of quilts to be viewed during the behind the scenes tour of the museum collections.

Wonderful African quilts top and below


Quilt detail of children playing soccer.

Let me stop right now and give many thanks to the Michigan State Museum and staff members for allowing photography of the work and permission to show it.

Donkey quilt. I'm lucky to have a small donkey panel that my Aunt Corine gave me. She is 100 years old and her birthday is next Friday, February 25th. Here's to her making 101. Did I mention she still makes quilts and lives independently. How's that for a quilt family legacy.

Quilt lovers one and all including a quilter from Colorado, Marion, Dr. Mazloomi, Ms. Mandela and Dr. Marsha McDowell, Museum Curator of Folk Arts


Michigan quilter, Dr. Mazloomi, Ms. Mandela, Dr. McDowell and Colorado quilter. If you ladies see this write and give me your names again. You know how we seniors are. Dr. Patricia Turner, fellow guild member had just given a lecture at the symposium but I missed getting her in these shots.

These are a sample of the quilts from the Benberry Collection that we came to see as part of the Cuesta Benberry Symposium. We were treated to a lecture and video presentation about The Skin Project video by Lauren Cross, Dr. Mazloomi, Dr. Patricia Turner and Kyra Hicks were among the distinguished speakers. The whole thing was topped off with a tasty reception and welcome presentation by the museum director. You couldn't ask for more than that.

Cuesta's Choice Quilt by Hazel Carter

Black Family Quilt by Dr. Mazloomi

Sampler by Cuesta Benberry

Little Brown Koko Quilt by Jeannie Cuddy, 1943

Visit this link to see an article I wrote for the Alliance for California Traditional Arts

http://www.actaonline.org/content/examining-quilt-legacies

It's always a pleasure to get together with fellow quilt lovers and I am hoping there will be more quilt retreats and symposiums that I can enjoy in 2011. In the meantime keep making art.

ART ON THE RUN

2011-02-16T14:27:00.000-08:00

Art making has been exciting and rewarding since I last made a post. It was my good fortune to have traveled to Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan in October to participate in the Cuesta Benberry Symposium, I had a chance to meet new friends and reconnect with Dr. Carolyn Mazloomi and Kyra Hicks. The weather was beautiful and I was able to add to my collection of utility covers and public art images.

These scenes of the creek running through the campus provided inspiration for future landscape pieces. I enjoyed meandering around looking at gates, bicycles and students going about the business of campus life.

I love this tree with it silver branches. I have it on my bulletin board with the hope of recreating it's wispy appearance.

This garden gate sparked my interest as I explore sculptural forms for future projects.

As always I went in search of utility covers. I like these because they are in grass. Here's a bit a green before the snow that has been blanketing the area recently.

I particularly like this one with the debris all around it. Each has a different pattern/design and I'm always looking for that.

Now I have to learn to make digital prints since these covers are really catching my fancy.

Which one is your favorite? More than one meets the cut, let me know what you think.

When I visited Japan in fall of 2009 I began looking at bicycles as art. They had all types including many with seats for children. On campus they are an affordable mode of transportation and came in many colors and styles.

I like the style of the pink bike but I would want it in purple or bright red. You know what I always say, put something shiny on it!

The public art on and near the campus is also very interesting. I had a chance to take photos while I listened the the MSU band practice. You could hear them clearly and it made me want to march. Don't you just love the enthusiasm of youth.

The large abstract sculpture was wonderful and is in marked contrast to this figurative sculpture on the edge of campus. As a public artist I am always looking at the presentations of other artists. The photo tile pillars are an option I may pursue in the future. There's always so much to see and explore and I hope you enjoy this mini trip to East Lansing.

This shot shows the beginning of the pillars and they are all aligned so you can't see the others behind this one.

Doesn't this abstract piece make you want to dance? Go for it!

Sunday Explorations

2010-11-07T22:09:00.000-08:00

There was so much to explore in Costa Rica and fortunately for us new local friends, Marva Dixon, her husband and Consuelo Taylor Anderson made it possible to trek around Puerto Limon and move south to Puerto Viejo on our last Sunday in the country. Our friendly and knowledgeable guide David Carnegie of Caribbean Costaricans Tours gave us quite a treat. In a long established spiritual tradition the tour began with a prayer following by all of us of joyously singing "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands" as we motored toward our first stop in the original community where Blacks settled. David's grandfather was a minister in this church.

The church is very important in this seaside community. David advised he no longer attends the Episcopal Church as he likes much more lively music and participation in the services. These are some of the churches we observed during our Sunday tour.

Additional view of the church

Church Interior above and framed drawing of larger downtown Episcopal Church.

Exterior of downtown St Mark's Episcopal Church with adjacent school.

St. Mark's School

These ladies reminded me of my childhood in Texas but I never had such a beautiful and dramatic Sunday School teacher

Sunday Worshipers

Sunday School Teacher. She is a beautiful subject for a portrait.

Episcopal Church on hilltop.

First Baptist Church downtown

Catholic Church in center of town

As you enter Puerto Limon from San Jose you get a striking view of the cemetery that is on both sides of the street. These white monuments to family and friends is very touching and keeps us in touch with our memories of love and loss. I am reminded of my mother and so many others who have touched my life.

The historic tour would not be complete without showing the House of Culture downtown and a variety of houses as we steadily made our way uphill. We learned about Jamaica Town, the start of the railroad service from Puerto Limon to San Jose. The ancestors of present day Afro-Costa Ricans came from Jamaica to build the railroad for United Fruit Company and thereafter to work in the banana plantations.

The community points with pride their connection with Marcus Garvey and the Black Star Line.

Love this stairway to the top floor of the Community Hall--Black Star Line Building that was incorporated by Marcus Garvey who organized the United Negro Improvement Association (UNIA).

Downtown had many interesting and colorful buildings and street art.

This woman graciously let me take her photo. She lives a block from the Episcopal Church.

I don't know what this building is but who can pass up a pink building.

We are in color paradise. I'll be quilting for a long time because of this adventure.

We didn't get to try this restaurant but I sure liked the blue.

This is one of my favorite views. With the heat I definitely would not be able to walk up those steps; who am I kidding, I might not be able to walk up these steps no matter what.

More public art even on the poles.

When we left the downtown area we traveled up the hill to get the scenic view of Puerto Limon.We were amazed at lushness of the trees and flowers.

Scenic view as we move steadily upward.

Adriene, Marion, Marva, L'Mercie, EdJohnett and , Dr. Steele

Flowers in yard facing the hilltop view.

House with a view.

David and Adriene loves dog and couldn't resist trying to get a closer look at this puppy.

As we moved upward we observed this public art outside one of the high school. Wish I could have gotten the images without the fence but it is still enjoyable to see.

Our helpful host Marva, her husband Rodolfo and one of their sons shared a photo for us. Check the name art on the windows.

Kendall with his art

Kendall, Marva and Rodolfo

Next post we'll head out of Puerto Limon and travel toward Puerto Viejo. See you then.

Book Alterations

2010-11-07T20:16:00.000-08:00

Altered Book Sample by Marjorie DeQuincy

A few weeks ago Marjorie DeQuincy and I lead an Altered Books workshop at Castro Valley Library. The turnout was wonderful with parents and children of all ages. The Children's Librarian, Denise Baker had boxes of materials for us to use as we went full speed ahead to create a variety of altered books. It is always exciting to see young people embracing art making in whatever form. Individual interests and personalities came forth with a variety of altered constructions.

Some parent/child teams came with a vision and understanding of altering books. The student artist wore her favorite color pink and continued the color theme in her altered book where she used papers, fabrics and ribbons.

What girl wouldn't love to have her choice of cool sun glasses to remember summer and wonderful weather.

GOT PINK?

Just a bit of beauty combined with beautiful flowers helped to fill out the interior.

We can appreciate the Egyptian Prince or Princess combined with holiday flair.

This student expressed his passion for sports with his altered book.

His cloth cover used surfboards, so very California. But he also seemed in tune our local team the San Francisco Giants. I bet he was glued to the television during the World Series. Way to go Giants!

We can imagine he is very proud to have this Giants information in a Championship season in his own very special altered art.

This prolific family team of artists stand proudly with their names adorning the covers of their books. Marjorie made sure that name covers were made for any student who wanted one.

This extra firm book celebrates animals with each sheet having colorful papers.

We can see the large sea creature and the large Hippo who also loves to stay in the water.

This book is in anticipation of Christmas, sugar cookies and presents of course.

We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Marjorie with an active team of family artists enjoying their Saturday making their art..

There is music in his heart.

Students working hard to get all the pages altered until I mentioned they could take some of the pages out. They gave them a sense of freedom to remove as many as they wanted while still keeping the theme and spirit of the book.

Proud siblings sharing their art with the world.

This young artist shared information about her other art projects at school and home. She had the wonderful idea to tie her book with ribbons. Her younger sister worked very hard on her own book and both appeared to thoroughly enjoy themselves.

She is pleased with her results.

Marjorie and I have found that students come to the workshop until the very end. We often have to set a closing time just so we can clean up before the library closes. No matter the time constraints students still manage to use their imaginations to create a variety of works that bring joy to our hearts when we see them.

I love this altered gingerbread house. It was very clever to add the lace to the roof.

This team of artists came to the workshop about 15 minutes before closing and got right to it.

These young artists were all smiles and extremely proud of their work. Don't you just love our next generation of artists. Pass it on!

I have to add a special thanks to Marjorie DeQuincy, friend and fellow artist , who continues to generously offer her time to help me with these local workshops. The Friends of the Castro Valley Library provided a wide assortment of materials for us to use to change, embellish, cover and alter books. As always Librarian, Denise Baker made us welcome, took photographs and provided books, magazines and other stuff for us to work with.

Until next time.

Puerto Limon

2010-10-03T16:30:00.000-07:00

Local band playing at opening reception of Quilts for the Red Textil: First Encounter of the Ibero American Textile Network at UCR Limon

Teaching in Limon was a warm and rewarding experience. EdJohnetta, Adriene and I had 9 to 15 students each. We soon learned the challenges of the tropics that were greatly outweighed by the rewards of its friendly, generous and industrious people.

Adriene's class beginning a project

Fiber magic taking place.

Hermalina, American Corner Librarian taking roll to assure all interested students get a place in one of the classes.


EdJohnetta and her students preparing to learn about greeting cards.

The American Corner in the Thomas Lynch Library hosted the three classes in several spaces in the building. All of the students enthusiastically approached three different approaches of fiber arts. My class began with a show and tell of quilts I had brought along with part of my collection of fiber postcards. As a ice breaker students were introduced to quilt terminology, looked at an assortment of fabrics I brought from the US for their use. Thereafter they began making fiber postcards. This initial project insured that each student completed at least one project no matter her speed. Most were able to make more than one before we started on a larger piece.

Main room of library with Ed's class on the right, quilt samples in the middle and my class on left.


Here I am getting used to being called "Miss Marion". I'm in age denial.

Many bottles of water and preferably a small towel or handkerchief are essential accessories for teaching in the tropical environment. These ladies are sweethearts and eager to learn. Many wanted to know when we were coming back before we even finished the class.

Mixing it up!

Beginning quilters exploring new ground with needles and thread. We only had one sewing machine on the first day and received another on the second day. We accomplished a lot with limited electrical tools.

Mother, daughter and friends working together.

First fruits of their labors. One of my translators, Ilvira Stewart is on the left.

These are three of my fastest students. The student wearing the black and white brought we a yummy coconut.

Very nice work especially for a first effort.

I have more great images but unfortunately Blogger has a glitch with image orientation and any taken in the vertical frame won't upload properly. If this gets fixed I'll add more of the class.

We were excited to find this sewing machine in our favorite restaurant.

UCR Limon Exhibition Gallery

Opening lectures and reception for the exhibit were held Thursday evening. Both were well attended and received.

Beginning of the lectures.

Opening remarks by university official.

Art team and university representatives.

View of Puerto Limon from the Lighthouse Restaurant. What a fabulous view. Can't quite say the same for the food.

Teaching and touring was a 12 hour a day event. Classes started at 9 a.m. and we finished our day around 10 p.m. We made new friends, tried local delicacies at the reception, listened to live music presented by emerging artists of the area and learned about the local issues within the community.

The Road to Limon

2010-10-02T21:47:00.000-07:00

Our grand adventure continued as we made our road trip to Limon, the Caribbean coastal city where immigrants from Jamaica settled after working on the railroad. Limon has always been an important port city that is still underdeveloped except for goods entering and leaving the country. Initially the railroad was important in this endeavor but now trucking plays an important role in commerce.

I was fascinated with the very colorful homes throughout the country. This one really struck my fancy. I was told that there are no strict zoning laws in the country so you can see very different types of homes next to each other.

These are homes enroute to Limon. Color abounds no matter the circumstances.

We are touring through the mountains. Tunnel Ahead! Our gracious guides Juan Diego and Stephen told us how fortunate we were to have such good weather. It frequently rains in the mountains and in the National Park this time of year. We observed the lush foliage and longed to take the skytram through the rain forest. Unfortunately not this trip.

As could be expected there were rivers everywhere to provide drainage for all the mountains and rain.

Of course no road trip is complete without good company and good food. As we learned to say Pura Vida! It was a good life indeed.

Our trusty ride and excellent driver,Stephen. Costa Rican drivers are aggressive and you have to be courageous to get on the roads.

My yummy chicken, plantain, heart of palm, beans and rice and salad.

Onward we went as we counted the miles, watched the trucks and the never ending scenery. Our first stop in Limon was the University of Costa Rica, Limon Biblioteca where additional works were to be exhibited. Students were swimming, sitting outside, enjoying conversation and being typical college students. As always I was scouting the public art.

Exterior of the UCR Limon Library


Detail of the art


Exterior of a student building


Artifacts on the UCR Limon campus

Our second stop was the Thomas Lynch Biblioteca where we would teach for two days. These murals surround the courtyard.

After checking the facility and meeting the staff we would work with for the next two days we headed for our hotel.There's nothing like a Limon traffic jam. Cabs and trucks were moving around each other with dispatch. The trip certainly kept us alert.

Our first view of the sea as we headed for the Westfalia Hotel our new home for five days. A pleasant fifteen minute drive from downtown.

These beautiful tire tucans greeted us upon our arrival. I was lucky enough to get the suite of the facility that looked out sea. Lucky me.

As always the day ended with a fabulous meal where we enjoyed delicious food, good conversation and the sound and smell of the sea.

Building Community

2010-09-24T12:17:00.000-07:00

We're having a party yeah!

It is amazing that we found such a wonderful Costa Rican quilt colony to play and make art with. The fun began during the reception for the Red Textil: First Encounter of the Ibero-American Textile Network. You know we fiber junkies were decked out in our various threads. We nibbled on tasty little dishes and sampled the beverages while looking for English speakers that we could talk with. For sure we all were thinking "why didn't we take Spanish in high school and college along with French or German." We're thinking we need Rosetta Stone in the future. But found enough bilingual friends to get by.

Here we have new friends Leidalia and Laurie. Leidalia teaches art quilting (quilt creativo) and Laurie has a shop in Panama. Don't they look great?

Laurie who lives in Panama and Olga who lives in Guatemala liked us so well they came to our quilting class the following day.

Marion, EdJohnetta, Adriene and L'Merchie are with a European jounalist. We hope we'll show up in her magazine. I'll have to track down her name since she didn't have a card. I was sure to give her one of mine. She was also a judge in the exhibit. She was wearing a wonderful top from Korea. Threads were definitely the name of the game.

Of course the big highlight was meeting the U.S. Ambassador Anne Slaughter Andrew. She was gracious and said she made an effort to decide on what fiber to wear.

Ed, Marion, L'Merchie, Adriene, Ambassador Andrew and Center Executive Director Schmack

My team members with Veritas University faculty. L'Merchie lectured there our last evening in San Jose.

New friends and colleagues including Dr. Robert Steele standing next to me. Juan Diego Roldan, visual arts coordinator and Paulina Ortiz were gracious and extremely helpful to us (She is wearing blue and he is standing to my left and her right). Manual Arce is kneeling in the first row wearing the red tie and is responsible for getting us started on this adventure.

We got serious about our mission on the second day when we started to teach at El Consturero Quilt Shop. Maria Teresa and Rocio welcomed us with open arms along with 20 students ready to explore new directions.

Adriene and art quilting teacher Leidalia Flaque choosing fabrics.

Music, dancing, fabric, friends and food. What more can you ask for on a tropical afternoon.

Yummy chicken lasagna. Adriene introduced us to keeping a photo journal of our food journey too.

Yes the gang's all here. Thanks Ana Luisa, Victoria, Ile, Maribelle, Tania, Lia, Marto, Laurie, Marianela, Ana Isabel, Olga, Miriam, Jeannette, Ana, Edelina, Adriana, Damaris, Jamilett, Leidalia, Sonia, Alexandra, Soledad, Maria Teresa. Rocio, Adriene and EdJohnetta for a good time.

Adriene's art work. She says she just can't stay in the block.

Store team members Gaby, Susan, Maiky and Patricia. I love those aprons.

Maiky, Maribelle, Patricia, Ed and Rocio all smiles. Who wouldn't with all the fabric around.

This is rainy season in Costa Rica and during the class we could hear the roll of thunder and very heavy rain that had totally cleared by the end of class. It was a wonderful day and I am happy to say friends are emailing me and becoming my friends on Facebook. This morning I was already encouraged by Leidalia to get my Spanish going. In the meantime get out there and make something beautiful.

Costa Rican Adventure

2010-09-19T12:02:00.000-07:00

Lush green foliage could be seen everywhere as we traveled around the vicinity of San Jose, the capitol of Costa Rica. Our hosts, the Costa Rican North American Cultural Center in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy of Costa Rica arranged a variety of events and activities for us to see and participate in. Women of Color Quilters Network members EdJohnetta Miller, Adriene Cruz, L'Merchie Frazier, Dr. Robert Steele of the Driskell Art Center of the University of Maryland and I had the pleasure of interacting with artists from various parts of Central, North and South America as part of the Redtextilia's First Encounter of the Ibero American Textile Network in the Sophia Wanamaker Gallery.

On day one we took the scenic tour to Irazu Volcano National Park. Our knowledgeable, fun loving and generous guide extraordinaire, Maria Teresa Arteaga showed us the sites on the scenic back road to Irazu. I even had the good fortune to receive a gift of wonderful smelling local onions. I sure hated I couldn't cook with them or bring them home. But the gift was one more sign of the generous and welcoming nature of the Costa Rican people.

This bovine beauty graced our hotel entryway. The Jade Boutique Hotel provided excellent accommodations and the adjacent restaurant had delicious food. We never got around to trying the interior pool. The temperature was certainly warm enough.

This was our true home base while trekking in San Jose. It was 3 blocks from our hotel; another block to shops and a market and within walking distance to the University of Costa Rica, known as UCR. I loved it since I graduated from UCR (University of California, Riverside, CA).

This beautiful public art piece is on the side of a building on the UCR campus. Following are a few additional gems we found on the campus tour. The flags hanging are for Costa Rica's Independence Day on September 16.

This piece is one of my absolute favorites. The UCR sign with the bamboo fits with my ongoing love affair with bamboo. We have five varieties in our front and back yards.

This particular piece was inspirational as I begin preparing to create my first outside public art project.

For a bit of fun there's the Boogie Gator. That's what I call him and it makes me chuckle every time I see it. Let's all get on out there and dance.

Winding our way up to Irazu we were treated to scenic vistas at every turn. Tin/zinc roofs glistened in the clouds. A typical Monday washday was apparent as clothes were hanging here and there. Maria Teresa explained the farms had such rich soil because of past volcanic eruptions. Unfortunately farms were devastated by the1960s eruptions. See this link for more information

http://costa-rica-guide.com/parks/irazu.htm

Ed, Marion and Maria Teresa enjoying the cool morning air. Thanks Adriene!

This is one of many church studies I hope to complete. This is the old church.

This is the new church.

This is a side road that we passed where the farmer in the background gave me the onions. We had stopped while the main road was blocked for gutter cleaning. This is the rainy season and I'll have more stories about later on.

There were plenty of cows to see and some could not be contained. MOOOO!

Ed, Marion and Adriene are enjoying the "Poor Man's Umbrella Plant". They are huge and beautiful to see.

Reaching the volcano was spectacular. We managed to reach the summit without rain and saw the craters before the clouds came creeping in.

Buildings on the crater rim.

Side crater with formation that looks like a fish. The black crater ash has a wooden walkway but parts can be walked on.

Main crater with clouds coming in.

Marion with Irazu Crater in the background. The volcano is 11,250 ft. I felt it too with a bit of altitude sickness coming down.

Maria Teresa, Adriene and I walked on this lava field and could smell the sulfur as we walked. It had a firm texture and was easy to walk on.

It was a memorable tour and an exciting way to start our textile adventure.

Taking It to the Streets II

2010-08-16T14:18:00.000-07:00

Montreal was so much fun that I took a few shots in Kansas City in May of 2009 and many more in Japan in November 2009. Kansas City also had a beautiful larger flat metal sculpture on one street. Wish I knew who created the piece. This sewer cover has what reminds me of a tree.

Japan has a unique set of street/walkway art that I enjoyed viewing on a quiet Sunday morning.

These flower pieces are on a walking bridge over a main thoroughfare.

Of course there are the utility covers with their own unique patterns and sizes.

Once again I should have been making rubbings too. Maybe some other day and trip.

Then we have this metal maze and its lined concrete surroundings.

Wonder what the K stands for.

What a wonderful visual abstraction. Now for a fiber translation.

The asphalt creates the beautiful blue tone surrounding of the diamonds and star.

We're back to nature creating the texture around the cover. Of course we don't like it when we have to drive over these uneven surfaces.

This was great with the bit of gold color on the top and bottom of the cover.

The white square around these double diamonds on the cover create an interesting effect. I can definitely see this working in fiber.

The breaks and cracks keep me looking for more.

As you see this cover is surrounded by textured tiles.

Here we get three for one.

These two covers are from Spokane.

This last cover is one of several I have from San Francisco but we'll do those another day. Besides I have to remember where I put them along with images from my hometown. Hope you enjoyed the street scape imagery and don't forget to look down when you talk your walk. There's beauty in unexpected places.

Taking It to the Streets

2010-08-16T13:22:00.000-07:00

When I am traveling I always enjoy looking at utility covers. Something about them fascinates me and some day I'll decide what art I can make from these photos.

A couple of years ago I took a cruise to Canada and started taking photos of what I consider to be industrial street art in Montreal. These are some of my favorites including the bits of leaves, pocked street surfaces and other residue.

This is one of my favorites of Bell Canada. I like the fissures coming from around the circle.

If I had been thinking I should have taken some rubbings too. The textures are great.

I like the variations and creativity of the designers for this very functional metalwork.

These two are close but just a bit different.

Once again a variation and the wear around the cover shows the power of water and pressure.

Now this is totally different and allows for more drainage.

This diamond pattern is also interesting and I find I like the surrounding color changes as well.

The smaller cover and surrounding concrete, dab of blue paint and wet dirt conjures up the urban landscape.

The bits of banana peel, cigarette butts enclosed by the square of metal reminds us to take better care of the planet. Some do/some don't.

Art & Health

2010-08-08T22:31:00.000-07:00

Health, diet, weight and obesity remain in the forefront of the national conversation. Many of us including our children aren't exercising or eating healthy foods. Added to that are stress and anxiety that can contribute to overeating. With that in mind, following are a series of quilts that were created in 2008-2009 as part of a health education program conducted by Bay Area Black United Fund, www.babuf.org. With the support of a Creative Work Fund grant, www.creativeworkfund.org, Dolores Presley, Julia Vitero and I participated in the Critical Mass Health Conductor program. Thereafter 15 quilts were designed and fabricated to address ways to combat African American health disparities including our own.


Welcome aboard the BABUF (Bay Area Black United Fund) Express

Dolores Presley made the first five pieces shown. All pieces are in the 50 to 55" range.


Get Tested


Get Tested Detail showing a bit of 3D embellishment


Good Medicine


Life Is Water in 3 segments


Step Down to Healthy Eating

Julia made the next five pieces.


Be Healthy for Your Family


Detail showing statements from program participants

Eating Right is a Day in the Park that has a oilcloth tablecloth and real flatware along with the appliqued food plates. See the opening image for details.

Stepping Stones to Good Health


Stepping Stones Detail showing felt footprints

Calm Spirit

I made the last five pieces.

Bulletins for Life

Bulletins Detail

Five A Day

Five A Day Detail

Thirsty? Drink Water

Detail for Thirsty? Drink Water


What Would Harriet Do?

Detail for What Would Harriet Do?

In the Critical Mass Health Conductor program all participants who graduate are considered Health Conductors. Harriet Tubman is Health Conductor #1. I'm Health Conductor #422.

As you can see art can be a vital part of any health awareness campaign. Many of you know about the AIDS quilts and the dynamic part they have played in AIDS education. We Health Conductors hope these quilts can play an important part in getting our communities to take a more progressive role in changing their diets, practicing stress and relaxation techniques, exercising more and consistently and definitely drinking a lot more water. Only we can do it.

Dolores, Julia and I send our thanks to BABUF staff, Critical Mass Health Conductor facilitators and all the participants who shared the training with us. We extend a special thanks to Creative Work Fund for supporting us in this project.

Sneak Preview

2010-08-02T21:45:00.000-07:00

Well friends I haven't been getting much writing done but I have definitely been making work. Other good things have been happening too.

I have two pieces accepted in the Once Upon a Time exhibit at the McMinn County Living Heritage Museum in Athens, TN. The exhibit runs September 4 - October 29, 2010. I'm also getting ready to participate in First Encounter of the Iberoamerican Textile Network that will run September 3-17, 2010 in San Jose, Costa Rica. My work will also be shown in Limon.

See this link for more information. http://redtextilia.org/welcome.php

Here's a preview of two new pieces that should be on my website by the end of the week. I'm working on redesigning the site as it needs to be refreshed.

This is tentatively called Nubian Garden. I have four new black/white and mixed color pieces ready.

To Market-To Market makes me want to go shopping for fabrics and other goodies in the homeland. Maybe I'll get a chance next year. The South Africa Quilt Festival is next July I think. After watching the World Cup Iam absolutely ready to go and see the sites, meet the people, eat the food and of course try their great wines.

Check my website early next week and see what's new beyond these.

Exploring Indigo

2010-08-02T21:21:00.000-07:00

Well how do you like my new design? I had to have the Africa map template and the brown suits me too.

However, blue is my favorite color and I have been exploring indigo dying over several months. This past weekend I had opportunity to learn from master textile artist Ana Lisa Hedstrom who taught me and fellow students about the history and techniques of Shibori while using indigo and other natural dyes. We stitched, folded, wrapped, clamped and compressed a variety of fabrics.

My personal goal is to improve my stitching technique so I can create new indigo dye/stitched works as a connection to Yoruba Adire Cloth pieces.

In the meantime these are some samples from the class and a few pieces I made while working with members from two of art groups.

This piece was stitched with upholstery thread that was pulled and tightened and dyed. The big challenge is get the thread tight enough for the stitching to remain as white as possible. I have to practice a bit more but I am determined. I like these meandering lines of white through the blue.

Using a running stitch on folded fabric in a circular pattern was how this piece started. The resulting cellular and very organic pattern is very interesting. Improving my skill at pulling and tightening the threads is going to take more practice but I really like it.

This is my first Arashi on cotton gauze.

Cotton fabric that was pleated before wrapping created this bold pattern. More practice, better wrapping, more interesting results. I'll be busy this coming weekend.

Twisting fabric then pulling into finger size peaks and wrapping them with pearl cotton thread created this effect. They look like flowers to me.

I machine stitched my version of a tulip on folded fabric. You can see the variation of dye penetration. Looks sort of like an x-ray of a flower. This technique has lots of possibilities for my figurative work. We'll see what happens in the weeks ahead.

Friends Madlyn Jones and Cora Lewis and I made these a few months back during one of our monthly play days. These look like 1970's tie dye. Of course I was crocheting then instead of dyeing and quilting. So I'm making up for lost time. I used rubber bands to create these circles.

This is my favorite. I can't remember exactly what I did to create this but I'm using part of an old curtain that someone gave me as part of my vintage materials stash. I love this piece. It has so much movement.

As part of a monthly Wednesday surface design group we tried using natural indigo. As you can seethe fabric was folded and dyed. The lightness will help create some value change for any pieced works I create.

The old weathered look of the piece is very appealing and I'm sure I'll use it in some narrative work in the future. It has holes in a few places throughout the piece.

Now of course this is an African machine stitched fabric that I hope to emulate. I've already used this fabric in some work and will see if I can make a copy. Overall, I have been having fun. It is an adventure to see what happens when you unfold, clip the stitches or unwrap the pole. I'm looking forward to seeing what the future holds for this process.

Time Flies

2010-05-13T17:59:00.000-07:00

So how it can it really be mid-May? Two months with no posts...what's up with that? Here in sunny California we are enjoying intermittent days of sunshine and rain and I'm catching up on new work and ongoing projects. But way back in March I had a chance to visit Rhythm and Hues: Cloth and Culture of Mali at the the Museum of Craft and Folk Art in San Francisco. This great small exhibit closed on May 2nd and I hope some of you got a chance to see it.

The museum has three exhibit spaces that were filled with wonderful examples of textiles from Mali and included videos of cultural events and textile making.

I love these layers of fabric that compose the costume and the animal masks. It is always so tempting to touch the fibers but I resisted the urge. I just looked very closely.

This beautiful shirt is inspirational and shows what a creative mind can accomplish.

These playful puppets put us in touch with the child within. Now if I could just learn to manipulate one and bring it to life as many performer artists has done through the ages.

I had good notes on the artists and fabricating methods but I had senior moment and lost two notebooks and a favorite tote bag so I'm sharing the beauty without the particulars. Keep your fingers crossed that I find that bag.

These garments are a Yorobani (the shorter garment in brown) and a Boubou. They are made using a starch resist technique with pleating and scrunching of the fabric that is placed on the ground and then splashed with a dye solution in one or more colors. The starch prevents or resists the dye solution from penetrating all of the cloth.

I did find that the hand painted fabric made by applying clay mud to cloth is called Bogolan Fini and is not worn much by citizens of Maili but is sold primarily to tourists. I hope I get a chance to do just that.

These are inspirational pieces and motivate me to do more surface design work this summer when it gets warmer and I can play outside in the back where I'll have plenty of space. I'll be sure to share when I do.

In the meantime, enjoy a bit of Mali and think of all the possibilities. I'll be using my mudcloth fragments to continue the piecing tradition.

This is "Getting Over the Blues" which has assorted African fabrics including bits of blue mud cloth that I have been parceling out over the years.

I'll be sharing new works later this week. In the meantime, visit www.infinityartgallery.com to see my work being considered for their art quilt exhibit.

March Magic

2010-03-07T14:03:00.000-08:00

Sometimes being in the right place at the right time can lead to magical consequences. It happened this week as Minerva Quilt Project students and I shared wonderful memories for Women's History Month.

The Minerva Quilt Project began in 2008 as part of the California Women's Conference. California Arts Council member Bill Turner saw work created by students at the Alameda County Juvenile Justice Center and invited their participation in the prestigious event. The first quilts were well received and prompted creation of a second round of work along with students from Ventura County Juvenile Detention Center.

For Women's History Month the Minerva Quilt Display documents the program in the Alameda County Juvenile Justice Center.

Student interpretation of Minerva and her traits. Minerva is the Roman goddess displayed on the California State Seal.

Student Minerva Quilt

On Wednesday, March 3, 2010 California First Lady Maria Shriver visited the center to thank students for their participation in the Minerva Quilt Project and provide encouragement and support for them as students and artists. She commented that we are all artists of our lives and encouraged the students to create who they want to become one day at a time.

This month Alameda County students created paper collages for this special meeting with First Lady Maria Shriver.

Minerva Collages

Counselors with Minerva Collages

Counselor with Minerva Quilts

Marion with Quilt and Collages

On Thursday several students, parents, Alameda County officials and I participated in The Women's Conference Presents Day at the Museum at The California Museum in Sacramento, CA

2009 Minerva Banners by Alameda County and Ventura County Students in front window of The California Museum

Minerva Banners using fabric markers and acrylic paints

Minerva Quilt Display

Informational Display

Minerva Sculpture

Marion with 2006 Minerva Award Winner Jennie Hernanez Gin and her sister in front of Minerva Quilt Project Quilts

Poet Azure Antoinette of Get Lit

Art Commission staff members beneath Minerva Banner

California First Lady Maria Shriver and 2009 Minerva Award Winner Helen Devore Waukazoo

Alameda County Adminstrator Susan Muranishi

In addition to the Minerva Award and Minerva Quilt festivities there were wonderful displays about fashion and all things California. Fiber junkie that I am I enjoyed seeing period dressers moving around the museum and the special exhibit Discarded to Divine.

Now compare these garments

Fashion Designs by various artists including Coleen Quen

I was impressed with what imagination and creativity can do with discarded items. These are part of St. Vincent de Paul Society, Discarded to Divine Exhibit.

Let's get stitching!

Street Art

2010-02-15T18:53:00.000-08:00

There's nothing like looking through my photo stash to inspire me to get moving with my sewing machine. Today we are enjoying a mild President's Day and thought I'd share a few Street Art memories. In the fall of 2008 I took a cruise with friends to Boston and points north. I had never been to this part of the east coast and it was fabulous. Wandering around Boston I was taken with the beautiful doors and the profusion of flowers in window boxes. It is my plan to use these images to create colorful Portal quilts in the future.

This elegant doorway as you can see has beautiful stonework at several levels.

While this shows a more expansive entrance with a interesting set of windows, a sub-entrance and the metal railing. The warm color mix probably helps during the cold, snowy winter season.

The wood and glass entrance set back from the street is welcoming yet private.

These entrances are all on one street and the variations were delightful to see and photograph. My gardening instincts were aroused when I saw this profusion of green around the dark door. The metal fencing is so contemporary and complementary.

The stonework at this entrance showcases the glass and wood of the entryway while the flower boxes and the tree bring green to the urban landscape.

The entry arches with the brick sidewalk and building are established features on the east coast but we Californians don't see them. We call it earthquake avoidance.

To close the door on Boston we can enjoy this forged metal grating.

In contrast Quebec presented its own unique styling of doors that are individual and colorful.

There is this extra tall red door surrounded by stone and white bordered windows.

How about this white double door surrounded with multiple size windows both high and low.

Then there is a patch of blue. Now when I uploaded these I really hadn't planned to do red, white and blue but it works out just fine.

This was available once who knows by now. As you can see I am steadily going up hill from the slanted sidewalks. Collecting art inspiration has been strenuous yet invigorating work.

The color combination of stoneware and brown is calm and earthy.

Ok, who remembers "Green Door--what's that secret you're keeping?" In this case probably a peaceful and colorful life.

These red doors round out my collection. I hope to create work in the near future as I look at this artful architecture. I'll keep you posted. If you have created door inspired art let's share ideas.

I'll be continuing Street Art imagery this week by sharing my fascination with utility covers and urban landscape utilitarian art. See you next time.

Countdown Olympics

2010-02-04T10:39:00.000-08:00

In celebration of Black History Month I have created a group of teaching quilts to honor African American women Olympians. I hope to develop this project and expand the works to showcase forerunners in the movement. Of course this would include tennis great Althea Gibson, runner Wilma Rudolph, rower and IOC (International Olympic Committee) member Anita DeFranz and Alice Coachman, the first African American woman to win a gold medal.

But in the meantime here are samples of the art studies.

Annet Davis and Jenny Johnson Jordon

Sharon Monplaisir

Vonetta Flowers and Jill Bakken. Vonneta Flowers is the first African American to win a gold medal in the winter games.

If you are in the Bay Area stop by the Castro Valley Library and see my exhibits in the main entry showcase and the Children's showcase thas has work for Valentine's Day, Mardi Gras and other February holidays.

Skate Fever

2010-02-03T19:02:00.000-08:00

Lutz, loops, lace, lifts, Lycra and lots of fun only partly describe 10 days I recently spent in Spokane, Washington, the self proclaimed Skate City USA. This was my third trip to Spokane to see figure skating since 2002. The organizers have done an excellent job each time and have broken attendance records during the last two National Figure Skating Championships. We were very lucky this trip since it didn't snow once during our visit and the weather was generally balmy for January. For this trip, my travel companion Loretta and I watched attentively as championship skaters vied for places on the Olympic team. The first weekend began with pairs and men skaters. Anyone watching TV probably knows who won in those events.

I'm always excited about Nationals because I get to see the next generation of skaters. This time our hearts were won over with the Novice Men who skated with energy, skill and age appropriate music. This group had the speedball charmer Nathan Chen, age 10 who performed "Kung Fu Panda" and "Peter and the Wolf" to win the championship. Right behind him was Emmanuel Savary age 12 who performed to "Super Marion Bros." and selections from "The Simpsons".

Rounding out the field were Timothy Dolensky and Phillip Warren. We look forward to following the progress of these young skaters at future events. As you can see their costume were youthful and just right for their programs. We had a chance to speak with Phillip Warren's parents and the conversation confirmed the hard work and dedication these youngsters bring to their sport. Were you ready to get up early to practice before going to school daily? But we know there's nothing like having a dream and working to make it come true.

Junior Men skaters brought in a new cast of performers. Rumor has it that the father of the winner, Jason Brown, was speechless. Silver Medalist Joshua Farris' dyed and crystal laden top is beautiful.

Novice Champions Alexandra Aldridge and Daniel Eaton had beautiful costumes made from velvet, sheers and braid. I was not a happy fan when I discovered this smudge on my photo but what can you do.

The second place winners are a brother and sister team Danvi and Vu Pham, ages 10 and 12. Joylyn Yang and Jean Luc Baker were right behind them winning third.

Of course we weren't always in the arena. Spokane is a scenic city and is said to be the largest between Seattle and Minneapolis. The Spokane River runs through the city and has a range of shops and restaurants that kept us busy when we needed a skate break. I even tried a bison burger that was delicious. There are several bridges crossing the river and a beautiful park adjacent to it allows for strolling and biking. Public art is readily viewable in and near the park.

This is one of my favorites of metal marathon runners.

If you ever wanted a big red wagon this should do the job.

This is a jewel of a project that allows the goat to vacuum paper that you feed to it by pushing a button the side.

This playful blue spider will happily guard your bike if you need to take a quick stroll.

There were these women enticing us to health as we walked daily to the arena.

So the fun side of skating include Snowplow Sam. We had to do it.

Loretta and I also have large pin collections. Loretta is wearing her Ode to the Olympics hat. We were both featured on local television sporting our pin collections while were were visiting SkateFest at the downtown mall.

This is a link to the television interview

http://www.krem.com/home/Pin-collectors-show-off-their-love-for-figure-skating-82522512.html

These pins have gotten us lots of press attention. We were also featured in a Calgary newspaper article when we went to World Figure Skating several years ago. The whole point for us is to trade as much as we can. Luckily for us lots of skaters, coaches and sponsors see we love them and happy add to them without a word from us. Of we know how to beg too. This time a nice gentleman gave me a Los Angeles World's pin. Our friend Marg from our previous visit also gave each of a sponsor pin. She was a dedicated volunteer at both Nationals.

As with most arena events there are always lines to accommodate our personal safety. So we make a point of talking with folks while we wait. This time we met a skater and her coach with her cool skate bag.

Did I mention that the Spokane River has several falls. We took a Skytram ride over them and the view was great. I was too busy looking to take photos. These are taken while safely on land.

The city also has an antiques district that I had to visit in pursuit of old aprons, hankies and anything else I could pack in my already crowded bag. I found a wonderful old bonnet, a great 20's era hat and gloves, gloves, gloves. All will be happily used in my ongoing documentation of women from our collective past.

Of course with skating you expect the ladies outfits to grand as well as the dancers. These are my favorites.

Junior Lady Champion Agnes Zawadski in her "Chicago" costume.

Junior Lady Bronze Winner Lindsay Davis in her "Cirque du Soliel" costume.

Novice Lady Gold Winner Leah Keiser in her "Carmen" outfit.

Novice Lady Bronze Winner Katarina Kulgeyko. I spoke with her father while riding the shuttle. He spoke of her dedication and determination. Her final program was to "The Adams Family", hence the cool spider outfit.

Folk Dance was the original dance this year.

Junior Dance Champions, brother and sister Maia and Alex Shibutani. All Junior Champions.

Pewter medal winners Isabella Cannuscioand Ian Lorello. This is detail of the back of your dress.

Junior Dance Bronze Winners

All of the skaters are to be commended for their dedication and hard work. Behind the scenes are all the parents, coaches, choreographers, costume designers and fabricators who made the week wonderful. I mustn't forget the young women who dressed beautifully to present flowers, awards, medals and good cheer to the skaters as they enjoyed their moments of success. Way to go skaters and thank you Spokane organizers, fans,volunteers, sweepers, Zamboni operators, sponsors anyone else who help make these events happen .

Remembering 2009

2010-01-04T22:45:00.000-08:00

2009 has come and gone but it will always be historical. The year began with me enthusiastically awaiting a trip to Washington DC to see the inauguration of our first president of African American descent. Added to that was the opportunity to have a quilt about President Obama in an exhibit in the Historical Society Museum of Washington, DC. I was counting the days, buying my thermal underwear, getting chemical handwarmers and hoping would to get a ticket for the inauguration from Congresswoman Barbara Lee. Although I didn't get a ticket I had a wonderfully memorable trip that I will cherish for a lifetime. I have a collection of memorabilia that I'll save for future projects and as keepsakes for our granddaughter, Jaade . who was born the year President Obama was elected. A sense of pride filled the streets and folks were helpful and courteous. Although security was everywhere there were no obvious problems to be seen or felt anywhere we went. I had the good fortune to travel with two friends that I have known for over 30 years and we explored the city and the museum together.

The stately exterior of the Historical Society Museum of Washington DC.

Marion, Loretta and Sandy in front of exhibit signage. I had the pleasant surprise of running into fellow guild member and UC Davis professor, Dr. Patricia Turner.The variety of techniques and materials used in the quilts was very exciting to see. Sorry no photos were allowed. It was the first time I had a chance to see Carolyn Crump's work up close and personal.

We California girls are bundled up for our train journey from Baltimore to D.C.on inauguration day.. We came ready to deal with the east coast weather and it was pretty cold.

This is the place.

A view of the masses.

This is as close I could get. It was a whirlwind trip and worth every minute of it.

February was full of hard work too as two guild members, Dolores Presley and Julia Vitero and I prepared to exhbit work at the Bay Area Black United Fund Biannual African American Health Summit in Oakland.We received a Creative Work Fund grant to fabricate work about African American health disparities as part of the Critical Mass Health Conductors training program. See www.babuf.org for additional information.

Here's Julia with her mixed media quilt that has real flatware. Julia and Dolores are founding members of AAQGO, the African American Quilt Guild of Oakland, www.aaqgo.org.

Summit patrons with poster of Health Conductor # 1 Harriet Tubman.

Marion's and Julia's quilts in background behind information table.

BABUF Express quilt by Dolores and quilts by Julia and Marion. We made five quilts each addressing diet, exercise and stress management. New venues are being sought for these pieces in 2010.

Stay tuned for dates of the next exhibition of these quilts.

Urban Adventures

2009-12-10T21:23:00.000-08:00

Japan doesn't have Thanksgiving and had moved directly to preparing for Christmas. Decorations were everywhere. Queen's Mall had several large trees and Christmas lights around the facilities. There was also plenty of public art around the mall. Of course there are many western chain stores including fast food favorites includnig Wendy's, Crispy Creams (with long lines) and McDonalds.

This is a group of school children wearing their pink school beanies. Does it remind you of your college freshman days and wearing beanies for identification. Am I telling my age?

Queen's Mall 2nd Floor Christmas tree. The mall is multi-leveled and is in three sections with street bridges connecting the sections. I thoroughly enjoyed visiting the post office and purchasing a beautiful collection of stamps. It was also fun shopping in small drugstores. The gum and candy flavors are very different.

The Yokohama Art Museum is a grand facility on the exterior. Unfortunately for us it was closed on the Thursday we tried to visit. The city planners have made it easy to try a variety of activities within a four block area of the exhibition hall.

This is one of several large scale sculptures around the mall grounds.

One of the most interesting parts of the urban exploration was visiting Ginza in Tokyo which was closed to auto traffic on my Saturday visit. Folks were taking photos and wondering around the street shopping in the top of the line shops and department stores. The signage was exciting too.

Now this is a new age angel.

Citizens on parade for some cause.

Of course visiting beyond Ginza was equally interesting. We had been informed about the 100 Yen Stores the local equivalent of our Dollar Stores. You know we had to find those. Hotel staff gave us good direction and after a few missed turns we had fun checking foods, stationary and everything else they had for sale for 100 Yen.

Local street and alleys near subway and 100 Yen store.

It was rainy the first three days we were in Tokyo but not enough to deter us from our adventures or our photos.

Sculpture of woman and child near 100 Yen store. I was also interested to find many public phone booths although citizens had cell phones. I still have my ongoing interest in utility covers that I'll be sharing later. I always look for them in cities that I visit with the hope of creating some work about them in the future.

One Stitch or Step at a Time

2009-12-09T22:07:00.000-08:00

Photos anyone? We could not take many photos at the festival so when we had the chance we snapped away. Ms. Ishinami and I exchanged cards and smiles. I imagine she's showing her friends photos of me just like I'm sharing photos of her.

Notice her fabulous bag? In the marketplace there were as many vendors for bag handles as there were for fabrics. The prize winners used felts, leather., fabrics and embellishments. These are some of my favorites.

The other international artists graciously talked about their fiber/stitching traditions and shared beautiful piecework with all of us. We shared laughs with this charming woman during breaks and when we walked around the marketplace.

We has less time to speak with the Russian artists but they happily smiled for the camera during the opening reception. Sharing excellent Italian food and beverages we talked with Naomi's help, played bingo for prizes and shared folk music. The finale of the event was responding to a traditional Japanese party closing song by clapping our hands.

Dr. Campbell was a prize winner of package of multiple fabrics. After the games Russian and Japanese artists sang a folk song.

Russian fiber artists.

A Russian delegate with Caralyn Williams at the opening.

Now the adventure to get back to Tokyo began. Making our way to the Queens Mall subway station we saw the Ferris wheel in full color. It was very chilly so there was time to linger. Through it all it felt safe to be moving around both cities. When we arrived at Shinagawa in Tokyo crowds of people were still moving about enjoying their city and so did we.

Crossing the Dateline

2009-12-04T22:30:00.000-08:00

During mid-November several members of the Women of Color Quilters Network crossed the international dateline to attend Quilt Week Yokohama (November 12-14, 2009). We were all delighted to have our Quilts for Obama exhibited in this yearly quilt exhibition that was well attended by local quilters. We were honored to have joined artists from India and Russia as part of the festival's international guest list.

EdJohnetta Miller was one of several opening speakers who cut the ribbons allowing patrons to see the beautiful work on display.

In Japanese fashion their mascots wearing quilted outfits waited patiently for the organizers to give opening remarks.

These are the quilted globes at the entry to the festival. The entry also had a supersized quilt hanging from the Yokohama Pacifico Exhibition Hall. The facility is on the waterfront and is adjacent to the Queen's Mall where you can find just about anything you want.

We have all heard about the excellent Japanese train service and I can confirm it. Citizens were very courteous and helpful. We managed to find our way from Tokyo Shinagawa Station to Yokohama Station without a glitch. Of course it took a bit of walking or taking a taxi to get to the exhibition hall. By day two we found we could ride to Queens Mall and walk half a block.

Carolyn Crump and EdJohnetta Miller managed to move faster than me and boarded the train in time. I had to wait for the next train but it didn't take more than 10 minutes. Lucky for us we were staying across from the steet from Shinagawa Station, a major hub that connected with all lines serving the city.

I love this No Smoking sign since the Japanese smoke everywhere. As a Californian I was surprised to find patrons still smoking in public places. But I can definitely say I was happy to hear over the train and bus public address systems that talking on cell phones isn't allowed as it might disturb the neighbors. I must admit I have always hated being privy to other folks cell phone conversations in public.

Day 2 of the festival marked the beginning of the lectures about the quilts in the exhibit. This is Peggy Hartwell speaking about her work.

Carolyn Crump with her quilt.

Cynthia Lockhart speaking about her work.

EdJohnetta and Naomi Ichikawa, the Editorial Director of Patchwork Tsushin. Naomi treated us wonderfully and made the trip extra special by taking us to a traditional Japanese restaurant with all the delicacies. Yum!

Naomi and Dr. Denise Campbell in front of Dr. Campbell's work.

Marion speaking about Winds for Change.

Latifah Shakir speaking about her work.

Artists in the House!

The Great Castro Valley Book Pass & Library Opening

2009-11-01T17:50:00.000-08:00

Community members, politicians, artists, book lovers young and old all showed up for the grand opening of the new Castro Valley Library that was preceded by the Great Castro Valley Book Pass. Halloween weather did play a trick on us with fog rolling in after brief glimpses of sunlight on Saturday morning. We were not deterred as we cheerfully drank coffee, ate bagels and donuts prior to passing some 300 books from the old library to the new facility.

The tough part of course was not to get distracted by the many interesting books that passed along Redwood Road. If there was a lull in the book pass it provided us with an opportunity to see how many unique Halloween costumes we could spot in the crowds.
There was Bee A Reader and the Dictionary with legs.

Families took the opportunity to enjoy the opening of the new library that has been twenty years in the making. Dignitaries came in force to support the effort. Smiling faces could be found all along the route. Diligent workers came early to help with registration, librarians and dignitaries actively participated as we joyfully celebrated a 20 year effort to get our spacious and bright place for books. We are equally excited about all the new parking spaces available at the entrance to the building. We had long outgrown the parking spaces available at the old library.

Our Children's Librarian passes a book across the new bridge with design work for the sculptural fence and bridge railing done by artists David Duskin and David Whippen.

Marion and fellow book passer making the stretch. Wouldn't you know she's a quilter too!

Eden Aoba Taiko Drummers got the party started before the official opening ceremonies.

The Library Manager starts the opening ceremonies. The Tree of Knowledge wall sculpture by Eric Powell can be seen at the entry to the building.

Marion is one of several artists commissioned in the framed works category.

Play On! and Keeping Step are shown in the background in one of the quiet area of the facility.
Marion had an opportunity to meet Senator Ellen Corbett and Alameda County Supervisor Nate Miley. Congresswoman Barbara Lee also came to extend her good wishes.

I'm happy to say these pieces were very well received and it's wonderful to see them displayed in such a beautiful setting.

Our new library has a Teen Room with a door that provides privacy. The art on the wall Etched Constellations, by Nancy Mizuno Elliott and Norman E. Moore is fabricated from acrylic sheets, LEDs, painted aluminum and glass is 9" x 20.

We Castro Valley residents are delighted with the new facility that has a cafe, multiple meeting rooms, a bank of computers and large open spaces for adults and children. Art is exhibited through and includes a mural The Free-Form Flight of Lifelong Learning by Jos Santos in the Children's Room, Main Reading Room art by Andre Caradec and Robert Fukuda, framed pieces including pastel on paper works about Lake Chabot by Mark Mertens, another Castro Valley resident, watercolor work depicting everyday people by Karen Frey and mixed media discarded book collage work by Lisa Kokin.

I can say the library journey has been worth the wait.

October Beginnings & Amazing Wonders

2009-10-31T19:56:00.000-07:00

October was full of new beginnings and possibilities. First I started this blog and Amazing Wonders, a dynamic quilt show, had its opening reception on October 10th in Sacramento, CA at 40 Acres Gallery. Northern California African American quilters and friends showed up to see a variety of works by members of the African American Quilt Guild of Oakland and other fine artists from the Sacramento region. Curator Kim Curry made us all feel welcome and appreciated. The Clif Lamb All Stars filled the air with smooth sounds. The community came out to show their support. It was a night to remember.

Katie Wishom's Obama Quilt documented history.

Debbie Mason, Dee Presley, Ann Seals, guild president, Marion, Benita Jones and our youngest artist Jamie smile for the camera.

Sacramento quilter Nerlene Taylor shared her African metallic fabric Yo-Yo quilt that is 95" x 72". Nerlene explained to gallery visitors the difficulty of using metallic fabrics to create the yo-yos. The quilt had a beautiful range of fabrics.

Elizabeth Browder's African applique, embellished quilt, Out of Africa was quite a treat.

Elk Grove quilter Connie Horne displayed Fiber of Slavery: Strong Women Picking Cotton that was also featured in a Sacramento Bee article slideshow. Connie is a prolific quilter who is known for her prize winning wearables.

Dr. Patricia Turner of UC Davis was present and later presented a lecture about her book, Crafted Lives on the 17th.

Want to talk surface design? Marilyn Handis showed us how it's done with Peaceful created with silk, gold and silver leaf.

Marion and Arabella Grayson smile a moment. Arabella's passion, black paper dolls can be found at her website www.arabellagrayson.com

Amazing Wonders will be exhibited at 40 Acres Gallery, 35th and Broadway, Sacramento, CA until Decemer 23rd. They have various activities scheduled until December 12th. They are open Tuesday-Friday 12-6 and Saturday 10-5. Go by an explore this beautiful gallery if you are in the Sacramento area. Tell them Marion sent you!