Far more than sew-sew
Quilting has evolved throughout the centuries from an everyday craft to an artistic discipline whose practitioners create objects of museum quality.
Art quilts from around the world will be on display at the Gems of the Ocean III Juried Art Quilt Show, running Saturday, Feb. 19, through Monday, Feb. 21, in the Yachats Commons.
The show will also feature a special exhibition of a 25-year collection of art quilt pieces by contemporary artist Ruth Bass.
Art quilters from around the world have entered their work for a chance at four prizes totaling $2,000, including a Viewers’ Choice award of $250.
Final judging will be made during the show by a panel of artists and dignitaries.
The show was the brainchild of Bass, a Yachats-based art quilter, who has shared her knowledge and contacts to bring high-caliber shows to the area.
“One of the goals of the show is to introduce art quilting to both locals and visitors,” she said. “We thought the ocean theme would allow artists to explore the beauty of this area and make interpretations based on their own whimsy. We’re delighted to bring this type of show to Yachats.”
The show is being put on by local event organizers, Polly Plumb Productions.
“Ruth has been instrumental in turning us on to the depth and beauty of art quilts,” Board Member Robert Rubin said. “We are very excited that she has agreed to display her original works at this show.”
Described as an artist who focuses on her subject in a minimalist way, Bass creates abstract treasures that utilize bright colors and unexpected details to draw you in.
Bass has brought quilt art to the Central Oregon Coast on a regular basis by launching three international challenges, scoring two three-day shows by internationally renowned artist Hollis Chatelain and now topping off the trifecta with this show at the Yachats Commons.
Bass studied under Chatelain for more than 13 years, focusing on fabric art and photography, including two independent studies in abstracts in acrylics this winter.
Challenge pieces by Bass have been shown throughout the US, as well as in France, Japan and Korea. The founder of Oregon Fiber Artists in Eugene and co-owner of the former Quilter’s Junction, she has expanded her repertoire to include painting a life-size sea lion statue in her own style with acrylics, and creating 36 designs for nine large concrete planters executed in mosaic by community volunteers. The sea lion, “Portia T. Doodle” greets visitors along Highway 101 in Yachats and the planters are located in Yachats, Waldport and Seal Rock.
Gems of the Ocean III will be open daily from 10 am to 4 pm. Admission price is a suggested donation of $5. The Yachats Commons is located at W. 4th Street. and Highway 101. For more information, go to www.pollyplumb.org or call 541-968-6089.