Tuesday, May 20, 2014

The Beauty Of Fiber Art Quilts

By Arline Bradley


Announcing a little-known art form! If you love color, design, and fine craftsmanship, fiber art quilts are for you. If you are an artist, this form of expression can expand your horizons. If you are looking for bold decorations or useful accessories for your home, you really need to explore this niche of fine art.

It's amazing what an artist can do with fabric, thread, and accenting details. Some make quilts that can be hung on the wall or used to cover a bed. Others experiment with size and shape, making small wallhangings or accessories for the home like pillows, table runners, place mats, and coasters.

As in any other art form, this medium is limited only by an artist's imagination. Some creators are inspired by traditional quilt designs which they may reintroduce in wildly modern colors. Many people take inspiration from nature. Check out the online galleries to see silhouettes of birds on a wire or tall ships, trees, flowers, and landscapes. Other works, however, suggest nature in shape and color in impressionistic ways.

Those who prefer realism will enjoy the garden flowers, landscapes, and recognizable silhouettes. People who like to see unbridled energy in action will find it in the bold colors and use of shape and line of abstract creations. These artists use textiles like the masters used paint to get effects those of us who are less gifted can only marvel at. The online galleries are great for exploring the diversity and impact of this lesser-known art form.

Many artists have their own websites. By visiting a site, you can learn more about the artist, his or her vision, and the ways they express their view of the world in fabric and thread. Many have won awards at major shows or been honored by having their work exhibited in important public places. The sites may have calendars listing exhibits or shows where works can be seen and perhaps purchased.

Cotton, a traditional quilter's fabric, is still popular. Chintz and batik are used, as well as hand-painted and organic cottons. However, any fabric might be incorporated. Foils are popular, as is metallic thread. Patterned, dyed, and painted cloth is used for the background. Pieces are joined by hand or machine, and embroidery is used to add depth and detail. Some artists work only with fabrics and threads, while others add beads, wire, cording, shells, 'found objects', or anything else they need for the effect they want.

All the works are, of course, one-of-a-kind. Each exhibits the unique handiwork, color and design sense, and vision of the person who created it. The quilting, embroidery, and detailing makes this art form different from any other, but it is the artists' vision and creativity that brings it vibrantly alive. One artists advises owners of her quilts that hanging them at different angles changes the way viewers will interpret them.

Art lovers will appreciate the energy and creativity of these creations of fabric, thread, and imaginative flair. The whole world is explored, from the serenity of nature to the explosive energy inherent in color and shape. Perhaps you will find a piece you want for your collection, or you may just learn to appreciate a new art form.




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