This is the piece that started it all. It was made in 2008, and expresses my feelings about controversies in the Episcopal Church that were boiling around at that time--and that continue to cause discomfort to many to this day. The fractured blocks, divisions between the parts, bridging of the gaps and "spirit ribbons" arcing through the piece are metaphors for the strong opinions and principled stances expressed in our church gatherings.
Gee Gee explained that when I made the quilt, it was all neatly sewed together. Then I took it to my ladies sewing group and, to their horror, sliced it into segments, pinning the pieces more or less back together as you see them here. "But it was so pretty," everyone said.
"And now," I said, "It's more true, more like we really are." The ladies still talk about "the night Bobbe cut up that quilt."
When I redecorated this house, I chose the coral color for the dining room especially to set off this piece.
So, I composed my photo show with many fiber pieces that had stories (including my 9/11 quilt and this one, of course). We had a number of the pieces available on tables for closer inspection. There were lots of questions and comments; people were very receptive to the idea that fiber art could tell stories even if it didn't go on a bed. And when I talked about recognizing the companionship of the Spirit while working on art, these smart, perceptive people nodded knowingly and told stories about their own epiphanies.
After lunch, one of the ladies said she had especially liked "Out Into the Wilderness," so I brought it over to our table for a closer look--and lo and behold, she bought it.
How cool is that? I definitely need to make more stuff!