Recently I attended the closing reception of the Fiber 2010 art show at the Brandstater Gallery, La Sierra University. Many of the pieces I saw on the walls there, I could have easily imagined hanging on the black curtains of any top quilt show. Step inside with me because there are also many surprises to be found inside as well.

One of the features I liked best was the artwork hanging from the middle of the ceiling. You could walk around it and enjoy it from all sides, and watch it blow in a passing breeze, such as with this piece, Memories Haunt (2009) by fiber artist Cindy Rinne.

The fiber art took on all kinds of materials, shapes and sizes. Handmade paper, copper, recycled plastic and even fish bones took their place alongside art quilts and weaving. The chairs were a beautiful and useful part of the exhibit and featured appliqued fabric (you could not only touch them, you could sit on them too!)

Artist Brecia Kralovic-Logan explains how she came to create Aqua Vapor Vessel (2008), where she challenged herself to make a vase from fabric but not sewn together (above and below). You can look down inside and see all the shimmering layers.

Whether we aspire for our fabric creations to hang on stark white art gallery walls, deep black quilt show curtains, or simply atop a loved one’s bed, we all share the joy of using our hands to turn the visions of our heart into reality. I hope this mini tour has inspired you as much as it inspired me. May we all look at our fabric stash with new eyes and see fresh possibilities.

Next week I’ll show you what was hanging on the walls.