Art Grouping

Hi, Melody—

Thought you’d be a good resource for some input on this subject: what are some pointers for getting a small group of art quilters together on a regular basis…monthly or so, I’d guess. Someone I just met who has recently moved from California is a quilt artist—she and I bonded (no pun intended) instantly, and are tossing ideas around about getting a group going on the Cape—I think there’s no such thing here so far—and I said I’d ask you. We don’t want a quilting bee-type thing—more like, well, what? What were the activities of your Chicago School of Fusing? Critiques and the like? Lunch? Dye parties? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks, dear Melody--

Leslie from Cape Cod

Dear Leslie,

The activities of the Chicago School of Fusing focus heavily on lunch, which accounts for its longevity and avoirdupois.

We show each other our work and ooh and ahh and then make comments that are usually complimentary. One can’t really call that a critique. At the point we are in our ‘careers’ we think we know everything and can’t be helped. On the other hand there is whineybutt time too. This is where we complain that we haven’t a clue what we are doing with a certain piece and the others say it is wonderful and we get over it. It’s all very helpful and satisfying.

But seriously folks…I feel that the camaraderie or trusted fellowship is the most important part (after coffee and eating) that comes from the group. One needs to be with people that understand what it takes to be an artist and produce art regularly. We revel in each other’s successes and help mop up the sorrows when things are not working as well. Without each other, it would be a sorry job indeed.

We do have the occasional art spree, and the occasional dyeing day is one of these. Shopping and seeing art shows together is really an important aspect too. Getting inspiration while having a day away from the studio can be so refreshing and stimulating. Laughing and crying and just talking until the cogent idea forms at last…nothing can replace this experience.

There has been semi-serious talk about taking a retreat together lately. Not to a water park says Frieda, but someplace like Santa Fe, for the art, and where we also provide the time to get closer and make big plans for the next great artwork. I really hope this happens because our schedules are getting more and more busy and we lose touch and have gaps in seeing each other and need to make the time…We are especially hoping to see more of Emily, which takes major planning, see her blog today. Laura has a city condo, and Tommy a fabu beach house, and I have two kitchens and love to cook so there are places nearby that we can ‘retreat’ to also.

Being an identifiable group has helped us have group exhibits, and that is always a good thing, even though we haven’t always involved everyone equally. We can rely on each other to gather up good pieces and that makes the whole look even better than its parts.

Best wishes in developing the kind of trust, friendship and just plain fun that an art group can provide.