Maria's quilt, on the Studio Barn
I think in some ways Maria is a performance artist. She has taken one of her quilts – the one she calls “Pieces of My Self” and hung it on the back of the Studio Barn, where it will remain, day and night, throughout the fall and winter. She said she wanted to show it to the world. This morning, after she want to work, I went out to look at it. It seems poignant to me, this quilt, pinned up to the back of the barn, but I understand the impulse. I will take photos of it from time to time.
Maria has a following now. She has sold all of the quilts she had on sale, and she is building her life as an artist, selling quilts, potholders, e-book bags, and soon, placemats. She makes what she wants to make and offers her art for sale. For much of last year, she made what other people wanted, and they paid her. For an artist, there’s a big difference.
I admire the way she has organized her art life, and seem it as an artistic impulse and, to some extent, as a business. She loves her new website, and I have to say – I am not unbiased – she is a natural writer, clean and simple and touching. She works hard, every day, and loves what she does, and that means a lot.
I think she is correct in the way she approaches her work – you become an artist or writer or creative person in the same way. One day at a time, working hard, learning and growing, over years. People have a fantasy that if they write a book or paint something, they will be instantly successful. It doesn’t work that way. It takes a long time to be instantly successful. I love this quilt, and hope to persuade Maria to give it to me. It touches my heart. It is a piece of my heart too.
Speaking of which: “Rose In A Storm” can be pre-ordered now. You can see an excerpt or download photos at the top of this page or clicking on the button on the right. Also, signed Bedlam Farm Notecards can be seen and purchased online at Redux, or on the phone, 802 867-4211.
