Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Picasso all did it, so when I was issued a Creative Summer Challenge to describe myself in a quilt without words, letters, or numbers… to tell my story… share my history and interests… I stopped all my ongoing projects to give it a go.
A few of the things this piece says about me is that, as a quilt artist, I enjoy challenges and stretching myself creatively. I like to step out of my quilting comfort zone and try new things.
It says that after living in many different places and climates, and even different countries, I chose to make the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia next to the Blue Ridge Mountains my home, and I love the ‘country life’! It also makes a nod to the fact that I’ve been patriotic since birth.
It has been been said by English playwright and poet William Shakespeare, High Renaissance painter Leonardo da Vinci, and even philosopher Cicero, but before them all, it can be found in Matthew’s writing in the Bible (Matthew 6:22-24). They all speak to the eyes being the window to the soul.
So, what my “Self-Portrait’ says most about me can be discovered in my eyes. Yes, I know you really can’t see them, but I hope I’ve made it clear that my gaze is steadfast ‘Up’ (besides being a ‘positive/glass half full’ kinda gal, I’m also watching for Jesus’ return) and to what’s ‘Right’!
“Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in Him!” Psalm 34:8 .
This quilt’s showings include:
AQS Worldwide Virtual Quilt Parade October 2023.