I have just returned from the SAQA (Studio Art Quilt Associates) conference in San Antonio Texas, and it was a great opportunity to chat with many of the quilt world’s most talented people in a small venue. It is great to go to Houston and other big shows to meet up with quilters and business associates, but there’s nothing like a relaxed smaller event to have more meaningful and intimate discussions with those from my quilting tribe.
Speaking of which, after the initial seduction of online classes, it seems that many are realizing the value of attending a quilting tribal gathering in person. For those who coordinate regional meetings and events, online meetings are a fantastic planning tool, but for sharing the techniques, creative passion, and camaraderie of our chosen art…there is nothing like gathering together in person. The tactile aspect of our art and craft includes not only touching and working with our fabrics…but also lots of hugs (and laughter) when we come together.
Last night I heard another life story about survival and the healing power of art, and it made me think about how many people I know who were drawn into quilting because it felt like they had found their tribe, when they discovered our little quilting world. I do think it is important that we always stay supportive and respectful of others’ work, in this time of stressful polarization. Quilting should always be a safe haven where we can come together to just be ourselves, and find creative acceptance. As people misbehave on social media, it is important to draw a line if we see some of that bullying behavior bleeding into the quilting world. It happens. But we can stand up for safe nurturing spaces…online and in person…and remind others that we are here to share in our creative passions.
International quilt celebrity & new SAQA President Lisa Walton will be here in ONE WEEK. We still have some space in the class so SIGN UP NOW! Sophie and I will be there all weekend also. Can’t wait!
The Registration Page for the Love Your Mother Contest and Exhibit is LIVE, but you have until the May 15 deadline to make a quilt and try for the top prize of a newly introduced model BERNINA 570 QE machine. The juried exhibit will premier in Houston!
sharing your Passion for Fabric…
Luana and Paul
