ISBN-10: 1600591078

ISBN-13:  978-1600591075

Publisher: Lark Books, a division of Sterling Publishing Co., Inc., C 2008

The latest installment in Lark Books’ Masters series is a celebration of the art quilt. Martha Sielman, director of Studio Art Quilt Associates, curated the works for this volume. The criterion for selecting the artists was specified as “artists recognized over the years for the excellence of their work and whose art has been influential in the development of the field.” It appears that Ms. Sielman used a discerning eye to include a wide- ranging cross section representing this medium. As director of SAQA, she is familiar with the strides made by fiber/textile artists within the art realm, and thus was faithful to the objective, while illustrating the myriad techniques and themes being explored.

As in other Masters publications (which include subjects such as beadweaving, gemstones, and porcelain), the selected artists are notable for the expansive body of work which defines them. Their inclusion here attests to their imprint on the art quilt sphere. It also provides much more of a true picture of each artist, as opposed to a mere survey book. Anyone interested in discovering an artist’s evolving form will appreciate this approach. Showcasing several works from each artist renders a more comprehensive and thought-provoking study.

Culled from artists across the spectrum of ideas and style, and from across the globe, Masters: Art Quilts, Major Works by Leading Artists  draws from some of the recurring and familiar names within the quilt community as well as those better known in art circles. The diverse works have in common fiber and stitch, layers and textures. How these are brought to fruition is remarkable in many ways. The underlying tradition of quilting is sometimes obvious, sometimes subtle, but the roots are apparent.

For those artists languishing in a bout of ennui, the colors and shapes will inspire and thrill. From the densely figured applique of Terrie Hancock Mangat, to the studied and serene threadwork of South Korean artist Kyoung Ae Cho, to the playful humor exhibited in Wendy Huhn’s heavily embellished pieces, there is something to fascinate every viewer, whether your taste runs to the abstract or the objective.

The tactile essence of quilts is captivating. When seen in person, the compulsion to touch and feel is part of the experience.  Masters Art Quilts is no less compelling in capturing that sensory experience.  It may even inspire you to take up needle and thread.

Click Here To Purchase Masters: Art Quilts—Major Works by Leading Artists

The above review was contributed by: Beth Burke. Beth is a freelance editor, a fiber artist, and a stay-at-home mom. Previous hats she has worn include procedure and proposal writer for government, commercial nuclear, and environmental services concerns; advertising copywriter; newspaper reporter; and college-level writing instructor.

Click Here to view Beth’s reviews.