"I chose to explore pentagonal symmetry to reflect the Rose of Sharon as it appears in nature. The quilt combines pentagons with spirals. My interest in both of these elements stems from a trip to Paris several years ago. I took as many pictures of spiral staircases (the Arc d'Triomphe has an especially wonderful one) as of all the other sights.
I wrote an essay about the quilt and the mathematics behind it and used it for the quilting design. Only words and parts of words should be discernible. I did not intend for viewers to stand in front of the quilt reading. The writing was intended to add a layer of mystery to the quilt.
My mathematics background may have instructed my intrigue with geometrics. In my quilts, I prefer symmetry, mandalas, and spirals. Sometimes I begin my designs with a traditional pattern; other times I look to Islamic art forms for inspiration. My latest work makes quilts out of non-traditional materials, but in traditional patterns."
General Notes
Note Type
Materials Used
Note
Cottons, embroidery thread
Note Type
Techniques Used
Note
Machine (paper) pieced, appliquéd, hand couched embroidery, machine quilted
