Stitching Dreams - "Out of the Blue" at AQS Grand Rapids Quilt Show
For those unfamiliar with Carrot Top Studio, it's important to first acknowledge my passion for storytelling. As an artist who crafts unique stoles for clergy, the power of narrative is a driving force behind the creations. In this case, "Out of the Blue" is no exception to the commitment to weaving tales through art.
The quilt itself is a testament to our dedication to craftsmanship. Just as each stole we create is a labor of love, "Out of the Blue" was meticulously crafted with acute attention to detail. Each patch, every thread, and the selection of fabrics were chosen with precision as if each element had a story of its own to tell. In the same way, Jane Clark of I Quilt 4 complimented the fabric piecing with her excellently crafted quilting.
Here’s the story behind this quilt —
Out of the Blue - Artist Statement
Making the most of everything you have is something I believe in. Hence, each year I create at least one scrap quilt from the remnants of my Carrot Top Studio business which designs vestments for clergy. Blue scraps abounded from the season of Advent so I set out to make as many log cabin style blocks as I could. The simple color palette granted me freedom to focus on tone and composition.
My goal in creating this quilt was to merge the traditional with the contemporary. I cherish the design challenge of arranging the blocks in a new and different way. In the end, the energy in the small blue blocks and their patterned fabrics needed the balance of large white negative space. The piecing in collaboration with the quilting provides visual movement and details to draw the viewer in.
Why do some quilts stir your soul more than others?
Let’s move away from the “I like it/I don’t like it binary,” suggests Frances O’Roarke Dowell. (from Quilting Arts, Spring 2023) Like when moving through an art museum, or looking at your children’s art a good place to start is to name the things you see. Then dig deeper with thoughts of how those named things work together. Move on to describing the color, the value, and the contrast. Try to put yourself in the artist/quilter’s shoes by thinking about why they made the design decisions they did.
Exciting news —
This quilt will next be shown at the International Quilt Festival 2023 in Houston TX!
