Fiber Art Quilts Offer New Forms Of Expression

By Sally Delacruz


A quilt basically consists of two layers of fabric with a central core of batting or wadding. Fiber art quilts retain some of the qualities of traditional versions, usually consisting of layers of fabric stitched together but the similarity often ends there. Some quilters producing these items reinterpret or adapt traditional themes in new ways but many depart altogether from tradition, regarding a quilt much like a canvas on which they can express their creativity.

In the 1960s and 1970s traditional quilt making was popular but before long quilters began to stretch the possibilities presented by the vast array fabrics, threads and techniques available to them. Traditional rules regarding quilting were ignored and a new form of expression came into being.

Each artist uses different techniques, fabrics and threads to bring their project to life. The use of fiber to do so offers them a flexible medium and painting, dyeing, stamping and tearing are all possible. A variety of colors and textures are used to bring depth and excitement to pieces. Each piece is different, created painstakingly by the artist and taking many hours of work.

In the past, a quilt was stitched in a certain way so as to keep the layers together. With this new form of art, stitches have much more than a purely practical function. The variety of threads available make it possible to use them to add all sorts of color, texture and shine. There are also many techniques used for stitching such as embroidery, knitting and weaving.

The inspiration for such artists is varied. Some are inspired by the serenity and tranquility of nature. Others use their own experiences in daily life as inspiration. Some images are representational whilst others are more impressionistic. Ideas and concepts become catalysts for pieces, often giving rise to wonderful abstract designs.

A quilt as an artwork can be finished using various different techniques. Some are finished with binding and some with or without borders. Installing such a piece on a wall is very important as it has to be done in such a way as to cause no damage to the artwork. Too much pressure on the fabric, uneven hanging or slippage has to be avoided.

These pieces are usually fairly expensive as they are unique and take many hours to create. The price is influenced by factors such as the price of materials used, the number of hours it took to make and its size. When buying an item of this nature, it is important to consider that the price is influenced by the fact that it is a work of art, created by someone with a unique vision.

Artists often spend many hours on a piece and put their heart and soul into their work. The combination of techniques and materials used as well as the vision and labor of each artist is what makes a piece unique and desirable. As the debate over what constitutes art or craft continues, there is no doubt that many of these items are not just craft but an artwork in their own right.




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