Quilt as Art by Jennifer June

Contemporary textile art has some or all of the basic structural characteristics of a traditional quilt, but incorporates contemporary techniques and materials to create an original work of art. We are continually amazed by the way in which quilting has evolved to become an incomparable art form. This week we're featuring some inspiring examples of portraiture in fabric.

Woman at Rest, 49 x 43", by Jennifer June (Whispering Pines, North Carolina, USA)

The beautiful composition, lush fabrics and textures really drew us to this quilt.  The composition is distinguished by flowing lines in the woman's form and dress, and in the paisley shawl that extends across the background.  The shawl is quilted with swirls and embellished with fringe. There are many more details to be seen, including the fan lying on the floor in the foreground.

close up, Woman at Rest by Jennifer June

The woman's face appears to have been created with fabric paint.  While the figure seems to be resting in languid repose,  the viewer cannot discern what is going through her mind.  Jennifer June says that the quilt was made for all those who suffer from hidden illnesses and pain.  Notice the way in which Jennifer created dimension by placing a gray shadow behind the woman's shoulder.

close up of quilting, Woman at Rest by Jennifer June

We love the idea of creating the two-dimensional quilted dress with pieces of fabric that might be used to construct a formal dress in real life.  Here, luminous satins and/or silks were used in various hues to depict shadows and highlights.  Each of the curved pieces was quilted with a different design.

Image credits:  Photos were taken by Quilt Inspiration at the 2014 AQS Quilt Week in Phoenix, Arizona.  For contact information and more quilts see Jennifer June's page at My Quilt Place and at Craftsy.