“I Used to be Something Else”
Quilt Show with Willa Brigham & Cyn Mallard runs February 19 – March 16
Green Gallery Opening Reception
The Scrap Exchange, Durham, NC
February 19, 2010 | 6-9pm
Photos from the show coming soon!
Artist Statement
I was thrilled when my friend Willa, an avid and very creative quilter, suggested I contribute paintings along with her quilt show “ I Used to be Something Else” at the Green Gallery inside the Scrap Exchange in Durham, NC. I was excited because, like her, I like the idea of reuse and found objects and enjoy incorporating these elements into my art. I also admire Willa and time spent with her is always a treasure… plus we have a blast! So, I went to her workshop and looked at her quilts, fussed with some fabrics, took little bits of this and that, things that felt nice, sparkled or had texture. I also used found objects from the Scrap Exchange. For some time I simply looked at the pile of “stuff” I had collected and as the date of the show started to creep up, I started to get antsy. I hadn’t worked with fabric, buttons or leather before and I wanted the work to coordinate but I didn’t want to lose my style in the process. I also had never worked directly on 1.5in bare wood board or particle board before, so that was a concern. I had other challenges too. Being winter my studio space was too cold to work in and I was desperate to get things started, so my living room floor was covered with plastic and a temporary studio set-up was rigged. Luckily, my roommates are very supportive and I am happy to report, everything all worked out!
The work presented in this show is meant to be fun and whimsical. The paintings include my usual style of distress, crackle, paper and acrylic with a few new elements of fabric, thread, buttons, wood, plaster and glass. My favorite colors of white, black and red play a dominant role. Wood and woodlands, birds and leaves, comforts of nature are one of my most beloved inspirations. In addition, thoughts of Willa’s lovely quilts, shape, squares, color, texture, clothing, and her of course, inspired me.
