This fall the Sheehan Gallery presents two exhibits that explore artistry through the medium of fabric and textiles. "The Nature of the Stitch" runs in the Sheehan Gallery in Olin Hall through fall semester and features 48 quilts from textile artists from the U.S., Europe, South America and Japan.
The concept of the show was originally the suggestion of Salli McQuaid, a local Walla Walla quilter. Artists whose quilts are featured in this exhibit include Linda Glass, Lura Schwarz Smith, Paula Chun and BJ Adams. The artists showcased in "The Nature of the Stitch" illustrate traditional and modern processes for quilting and embroidery, interpreting their reflections on the internal and external, micro and macro, natural and urban elements of society. Intricate in detail, the quilts featured in "The Nature of the Stitch" show a wide range of color and are exquisite to the eye.
Alongside "The Nature of the Stitch," Sheehan Gallery is also hosting "Requiem for a Rainforest." This show features a variety of handmade textiles manufactured by CPALI Madagascar. Founded in 2003 by conservation biologist Catherine Craig, CPALI works with farmers and artists to protect the Makira Natural Park in Madagascar. On display are textiles created from the cocoons of silkworms that were harvested, dyed and hand-sewn together. Part of "Requiem for a Rainforest," are three micro-exhibits: wildlife photos from Nick Garbutt, a photo montage from Malagasy photographer Safidy Andrian and works by South African artist Mandy Coppes-Martin, which are constructed out of hemp, sisal, cotton rag and fibers.
On Monday, Sept. 24, the Sheehan Gallery will host visiting artist and entrepreneur Docey Lewis. Lewis has worked for 35 years in over 40 countries as a designer and sourcing consultant for commercial companies, governments and international development organizations. Lewis' work with CPALI has resulted in a collaboration with artisans in Madagascar to produce unique wild silk cocoon artwork. Her work is represented in New York by the Tucker Robbins showroom and at Imagine Home in Atlanta. The lecture will begin at 7 p.m. in Olin 138.
On Saturday, Oct. 20, guest curator Catherine Craig will give a talk about the art and science involved in the construction of "Requiem of a Rainforest" and her work with CPALI. The talk will begin at 3 p.m. in Olin 138.
The eclectic exhibits of "The Nature of the Stitch" and "Requiem of a Rainforest" will be on display until Dec. 7, 2018. The gallery is open from noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and noon to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
