Scrapbag

Art Quilters Annual Exhibit

At Library

The annual Scrapbag Art Quilters exhibit of contemporary art quilts, “Playing on the Surface,” is on display on the main floor of C.H. Booth Library, until Friday, October 14, during regular library hours.

A collection of quilted artwork by artists who originally banded together “years ago,” according to member Margaret Clayton-Amey, when they were newcomers to Newtown, the work takes quilting beyond the traditional needle, thread, and fabric creations with which most are familiar, to a new level.

Utilizing spinning, felting, papermaking, weaving, painting, printing, embellishments, and several other mediums, the fabric wall hangings have been crafted into works of art by members Carolyn C. Cooney, Margaret Calyton-Amey, Barbara Drillick, Nike Cutsumpas, Norma Schlager, Andrea L. Shedletsky, Paula West, Chris Aulicino, Janet Bunch, and emeritus member Heloise Wilkinson.

“We all once were from Newtown or nearby,” said Ms Amey, “but we are scattered now.”

Even so, belonging to the Scrapbag Art Quilters group gives them all a reason to come together, and they enjoy exhibiting their works each year in their hometown library, said Ms Amey.

The pieces this year, once again, show off the diverse talents of the group. Machine and hand-stitched quilted pieces are melded with fabric and paper appliqué; painted surfaces are given a three dimensional effect through quilting, embroidery, and stamping. Marbling techniques, markers, and beadwork add texture and richness to other art quilts from the Scrapbag Art Quilters, and all of the pieces provide viewers with the opportunity for reflection and admiration.