“Joining this group three years ago is one of the best gifts I have given myself,” said Jenny Farrell-Graham, CQAFA co-president. “Becoming a member has provided me the opportunity to grow artistically and socially, as I have made many new friends along the way.”
Quilts are on display at Sinclair College’s Mason campus, 5396 Courseview Drive, Mason.
Farrell-Graham shares more:
Q: Who are the Contemporary Quilt and Fiber Artists?
A: Contemporary Quilt and Fiber Artists (CQAFA) is a nonprofit organization of fiber artists who share a passion for textile artistry and support one another's artistic growth. We nurture and inspire the creativity of our members by sharing our knowledge and skills and offering a variety of educational and exhibition opportunities.
We have members who create using many varied forms of fiber, such as quilting, weaving, embroidery, thread painting, doll-making, rug-hooking, fabric dyeing, wearable art and beading. They share their work and ideas and hold workshops to learn new techniques or explore older ones.
Our talented members have participated in regional, national and international competitions over the years. The group proudly continues to recognize and share the creative energies and ideals begun in 1991 at Grailville.
Q: How did CQAFA begin?
A: CQAFA, formerly known as the Grailville Quilters, was founded in 1991. Early members were inspired by The Grailville Women's Spiritual Center and the "Zen" of their personal quilting experiences.
We strive to recognize and foster the talents and efforts of every artist, whether beginner or master.
The group was renamed the Contemporary Quilt and Fiber Artists in 2004.
Q: What makes CQAFA unique?
A: We are a very diversified group of fiber artists and, for me, the wonderful part of the group is the free flow of information that happens when we gather together.
We have a “Show & Share” segment at each of our meetings. When we present a piece, we also discuss our process, how we brought the piece to fruition and what new or tried and true methods and techniques we may have employed in that process.
If someone is stuck on a piece, he or she might present and ask for suggestions. That is the beauty of having such a group.
Q: What are highlights of the exhibit at Sinclair?
A: The exhibition showcases 31 pieces ranging in size from 80-inches-by-80-inches to 12-inches-by-12-inches. They include different styles of patchwork, free-motion quilting, hand stitching, thread painting, polymer clay additions, hand dyed fabrics and stamping. It is quite a feast of color and texture.
Q: How can someone get involved with CQAFA?
A: CQAFA meets on the second Monday of each month, 7-9 p.m., at "The Barn" in Mariemont. Anyone is welcome to be a guest at our meeting to see what we are about and can join our group after attending two meetings. The annual membership fee is $25.
Q: Are there other upcoming events?
A: CQAFA hosts an annual exhibit at the Cincinnati Nature Center in October, as well as other galleries, with a show coming up June 15-28 at "The Women's Art Club Cultural Center" at "The Barn" in Mariemont. The opening reception will be held Saturday, June 17, 1-4 p.m.
Contact this contributing writer at lisa.knodel@gmail.com.
How to go
What: Contemporary Quilt and Fiber Artists quilt exhibit
When: Through Friday May 26; Hours are 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m.-noon Saturday.
Where: Sinclair College - Mason, 5396 Courseview Drive, Mason
Cost: Free
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