One of the best things about my "job"
is that I have the opportunity to help others. In addition to our fundraising
through our charity program (2% of sales go to charity – over $1 million raised
so far!) we also support several quilt shows through sponsorship and prize
money.
Over the years I've enjoyed supporting SAQA (Studio Art Quilt Associates) by sponsoring
their shows, and doing video reviews of
many of their exhibits in the US, UK and Australia.
Last year I was
very honored to be asked to join their President's Advisory Committee, which
means I've had several brainstorming sessions on how to help the organization
grow.
Awhile ago I was approached by SAQA board members about doing a
fundraiser fabric collection. After much brainstorming, we came up with the idea
that I would curate and merchandise a line based on the winning artwork
submitted by SAQA artists.
So I am happy to announce that SAQA is
partnering with Andover Fabrics,
and we have put out a Call for
Entries. The winning artists will have their name on the selvedge and of
course in the collection's marketing, and will be participating in what is
hopefully a longterm source of income for SAQA – and then all of the members
will benefit! (The copyright will belong to SAQA, and the royalties will also go
directly to SAQA.)
For an artist who wants to get their foot in the door
of the world of commercial textile production, this could be a great
opportunity. For SAQA, it is a chance to promote their organization and the
winning artists, and hopefully attract new members.
In case you are
wondering, no I am not making a penny from this effort. I am excited about
working with a group of aspiring designers, and taking them through the process
of making a collection.
I have watched SAQA grow and spread around the
world, and I hope that we'll see entries from several countries. My sincere
thanks to Andover Fabrics, and all
the artists and designers who will join me in donating their time and talent to
this project, to support SAQA in their 25th Anniversary Year!
* Detail photo above from
Latifah Saafir's quilt "Neutral and Neon" at QuiltCon in Austin Texas.
Guild:
Los Angeles Modern Quilt Guild.
Clamshell pattern made with neutral linens
and cotton fabrics.
* Hurricane Sandy
Quilt Relief Info *
(YES! – We are still accepting donated
quilts!)
Many thanks to Timeless Treasures for their
ongoing dedication to this urgently needed relief project.
* Sandyhook Elementary Memorial
Quilt Project *
