Four Works Selected For Patchwork Appalachia

Patchwork Appalachia at Tamarack WV celebrates the many threads of Appalachian culture. Appalachian heritage is made up of bits and pieces of many times and places, forming a rich tapestry of life. The show features the works of WV artists exploring the stories and traditions of the region. I'm pleased to announce that 4 works have been selected for the juried show, including an original acrylic painted specifically for the theme.

The exhibition runs from March 14th – May 10th, 2026, with an opening reception on March 14th from 1-3pm.

There will also an online link here once the show opens: https://www.tamarackwv.com/galleries/

Works can be purchased through the gallery by calling 304-256-6843 ext.7329 or ext. 7343.

'Threads Of Mountain Kin' 12x24 original acrylic on gallery wrap canvas

The idea of the quilt is that it's made for her by her grandmother so that she will always sleep wrapped in the warmth and comfort of her Appalachian roots.

Quilt squares (based on internet research of Appalachian life, traditions and symbols:

Nature and connection to nature came up often, so I included several squares depicting the womans' childhood memories involving nature. Berry picking, swimming in the river, autumn, fireside stories with dad, cardinals and connection to lost ones, snowman making.

Resourcefulness and farm life- caring for farm animals, fishing, the family garden, Grandmas' herbal remedy (Granny magic).

Handmade toys and gifts-the wooden horse seems to have been a popular toy.

Faith and family are central to Appalachian life so I included them. I put the family square closest to her heart and where the viewers eye would be drawn.

Music and mountain laurel, the Appalachian cabin she grew up in

Baking in Grandmas' kitchen, apple stack cake

Superstition and cryptids are a big part of the culture so I included Mothman and the Forest Booger (bigfoot-like creature).

Calenigg (Calendar) Apple-a very old and rarer 'Old Christmas' tradition of placing an apple on twig legs and adorning it with evergreens and cloves. Used for decoration and sometimes going door to door caroling.

The triangles on the edges are based off colors and design elements from the Appalachian flag.

Photographs:

1) 'Tranquility' 16x20 framed giclee $475

Every time I go to Tamarack I drive by Paint Creek and there is so much beauty there. On this day, the lighting was just right and the pattern of rocks, light and leaves reminded my of a patchwork quilt of color, texture and light. Once I saw this image on my computer I knew I was going to save it for this show!

2) 'Almost Heaven' 16x24 giclee on gallery wrap canvas $495

I photographed this self portrait on Beauty Mountain (New River Gorge). I wanted to capture the iconic expansiveness of the mountains while emphasizing the magical feeling of this place. I wanted a timeless feel, which is why I chose a dress in a neutral color and style. WV is part of the patchwork of Appalachia , and while it is filled with many generations of memories, it is also timeless. The trees, mountains and rivers have been here since before the state of WV was created. They nurtured and protected our ancestors, offered a place of calm and belonging; and they are there for us still. In good times and bad, they are here for us, a place of peace and hope. A place of home.

3) 'Capitol In Winter' 8x10, $175

I exhibited work in my first WV art show at the WV Culture Center (Emerging Artist Show). As part of my memories of this new adventure, I photographed the Capitol building while I attended the art show opening. I liked this angle because it shows the Coal Miner statue and part of WV heritage. For me, this image is about WV heritage, but also it's part of the patchwork of my own life as an artist.

0 Comments

Four Works Selected For Patchwork Appalachia

Leave a comment

Archive