It is such an honor to be included in the final round of the Challenge. Because of this competition, I feel as though I have finally found my artistic voice and been affirmed as an artist. During this time my work was presented to the public at two Quilt Shows and I was forced to have a conversation about my process with many people. Through these conversations and hearing what others think about my work, I gained a new found confidence in my quilting ability. I have many friends, old and new, to thank for their truly overwhelming support. I owe much to everyone, but especially the York Quilters who have set aside a part of their day to cast votes moving me along in the Competition.
I love Challenges and working to a deadline, but being a teacher, the time factor of the preceding challenges was more easily managed. Thank goodness a concept quickly formed so that I was able to produce most of the top over the long Labor Day weekend. I am a big fan of Pinterest and keep a file of inspirational images for my work. The design for the final Challenge came from an image of an African Door included in that file. ‘Africa | Carpet patterns. Tighmart Oasis. Guelmin …’, The idea of Opposites was so much easier than the fabric Challenge and I was able to apply it many ways through the design. I am thrilled with what I have so far and hope you will be as well.
Since I have spent a majority of my summer in my sewing studio I thought you might like to see the view. The studio is a sun room so I have the joy of viewing my garden while I work. I have to admit the garden has gotten a bit out of hand with so much time spent in the studio. This is all quickly coming to an end and then I will have more time to catchup with the work outside. But as for now, I have to get back and finish Challenge #3.
Thank you McCall’s for all you have given me!
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Click here to read Barbara Wilke’s McCall’s Quilt Design Star™ 2012 bio page.
This update has been brought to you by Robert Kaufman, one of our fine QDS™ 2012 sponsors.
IS THERE ANYWAY TO GET THE PATTERN BARBARA? Your quilt is very interesting and a great play on color and design!
Wow! Thanks for asking for a pattern. At this time there is no pattern, but that is certainly something I should consider for the future.
The final round–what a rush this whole competition has been–loved seeing into your imaginations!!