Mary's on the Road Reviews- Natures Landscape

Natures Landscape

 at the Lincoln Library, Lincoln, MA  April 2-28, 2018,

Spring in New England is fickle. We are weary of being housebound and relish a hint of sunshine or brave crocus poking through an unexpected snow squall. Last Sunday was just one of those days. I dragged my feet toward making it to an exhibit I really wanted to see. Luckily the Fiber Art Exhibit won. 
Friends Karen Pulaski and Tricia Deck expertly blend their "Natures Landscape" exhibit resulting a small but engaging show. They call their pieces fiber art rather than quilts as most of the textile pieces use raw edge applique and layering and quilting techniques to create a three dimensional quality to the finished pieces. I would call them "Folk Art/Art Quilts" rather than fiber art.

Rose by Karen Pulaski

 

 

 

Like some folk art Karen's quilts have been influenced by the natural world around her. They possess an exceptionally well made three dimensional quality that incorporate her many years of sewing bridal and couture clothing. Karen has been known to effortlessly use some very difficult fabrics like silk, wool, and leather She has transferred and transformed her sewing skills in a very unique and inviting way that immediately involves every viewer. Close up you want to smell and touch that bright pink rose surrounded deep dense green leaves. And who too doesn't secretly want to find themselves waiting in that textured nest surrounded by some very elegant foliage, feathers, and lacy fringed flowers. 

Waiting by Karen Pulaski

 

Stony Brook Birches by Tricia Deck

Tricia Deck's "Folk Art/Art Quilts" seem more elemental with trees, landscapes, and sheep which also have  a three dimensional quality achieved by using raw edged machine applique. This technique and raw fabric choices highlight her chosen imagery. Tricia's Stony Brook Birches successfully use contrasting fabrics for depth and reflection as seen at the edge of the water and in the dense woods behind lighter colored birches. 

 

Ellen's Sheep by Tricia Deck

Tricia's landscapes have some subtly unexpected fabrics and design elements incorporated into her quilts. For example the use of a striped Kaffee Fassett fabric adds a whimsical boundary to the diagonal path the sheep are following. Ellen's sheep seem to be happily herding themselves out of their pasture.  Real fluffy wool on the sheep further define the foreground while the "cropped" trees, vertical fence posts, and horizontal checked and layered fabrics define the rest of the scene.
Kudos to the Lexington Library for hosting this "Folk Art/Art Quilts" exhibit and hopefully spring is just around the corner. 

Happy Quilting,

Mary