11.6.14

Buying Fiber Art Quilts To Hang On Walls

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.

Others chose to give free reign to their creativity, breaking most traditional quilting rules and developing a much, more free flowing means of expression. They no longer saw a quilt as a utilitarian object but more like a new type of canvas. They experimented continuously with techniques and materials to create this new art form.

There pieces are intended to take their place alongside other forms of art displayed in houses and galleries. They are not bed coverings any more. Artists often have all sorts of ways of handling the fiber they use. They tear, stamp, dye and paint until they are satisfied with the result. Colors, textures and shapes are used in arresting new ways.

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.

Many of these artists receive their inspiration from nature. Some autumn leaves, a sunset, a walk on the beach and many other simple aspects of nature can be interpreted in such a piece. The variety of styles is vast, from representational to abstract and impressionistic. A simple idea or a concept can be a catalyst for a design.

The finish on such a quilt intended for hanging is often a question for debate by the artist. There are those that feel that framing such a piece actually detracts from its appeal whilst others feel a piece is often more likely to sell if it is framed in some way. Artists may even be involved in the hanging process once a work is sold as this has to be done correctly to avoid any damage.

The pricing of such items varies considerably. The length of time taken to complete the piece, from conception and design through to the finished article, is probably the most important factor. The square footage of a piece is another factor taken into consideration as well as the price of the materials used. The artist might even get involved with actually hanging the quilt for the customer, providing the hanging materials which adds to the price.

These artists often say that until they became involved in this type of quilting, they had not found their true form of expression. Their passion is seen in their work, giving each piece its aesthetically pleasing quality. The deep rich colors, satisfying forms and variations in texture give this form of expression a unique appeal.




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