Collider Artist in Residence

I had the honor of being the Collider Artist in Residence for the Louisville Public Library for the month of March 2024. I moved in on the 1st of the month and set up my sewing machines, and put my quilts, Frida Khalo costumes, and other art work on display.

During the month I had studio hours and met with the public and talked about all things quilting, and art. It was so much fun! I met so many people and children that had a curiosity about quilting and sewing.

Part of the residency was completing 3 workshops with the public. The first workshop was Children’s Introduction to Quilting. I had several children and their parents sign up to sew their first quilt block. For those that aren’t familiar with this terminology, a quilt is 3 layers, a top fabric, a middle stuffing (sometimes called batting or wadding) and a backing fabric. Each student was given the 3 layers to sew together on a sewing machine. Once they were done with this, we folded over the backing fabric and covered the raw edges, this gave each person their own little mini quilt.

The other 2 remaining workshops were the same topics and open to all ages. They were called How I Got My Mojo Back! In these workshops participants were able to learn about how I discovered the joy of making modern quilts. I was able to get my Mojo back when I discovered quilting and fiber arts in the Modern aesthetic. After the presentation everyone had a chance to participate in a Community Quilt that is going to be submitted to be displayed in the Kentucky State Fair in August 2024. Each participant was given a 10”quilt block to write their names on and stitch together for this Quilt-As-You-Go community project.

I was also able to participate in the first Collider Arts Day. The library counted over 400+ people coming through the doors to interact with many of the past Collider Artists in Residences. The studio I was in at one point was standing room only, we were so busy that day. It was also a great opportunity to meet many of the artists I follow on Instagram in real life.

One of the highlights for me was the love and support I received from my family and friends. My husband is my #1 one fan and has always supported my crazy ideas when it comes to my art. My daughter traveled in from NYC, my son from Kansas City, my brother and sister in law drove in with their 4 dogs from VA Beach to attend, my nephew flew in from TX, and my uncle drove in from Little Rock. It was truly an act of love for everyone to schedule time to travel to be here and support me, it meant so much to me.

Finally on the day of the last workshop, Saturday 3/30/24, it was time for me to move out of the space. I couldn't believe my month was over so fast. It was really a great experience and I felt very honored to have been a part of this program.

There are many pics of these workshops under the Mojo Customers & Friend tab. Thanks for reading and until next time, Happy Quilting!