Ellen Koehn
Quilt Artist
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"Butterfly Birdhouse"
My work is a reflection of my life here in the Northwest. The weather is dramatic; wildlife and nature abound. Unfortunately, most of us see it only from the freeway, from the bus, going from one place to another. In my work, I am trying to remind others and myself that there is another reality. In our fast paced lives we often miss the quiet moment, the sound of water, the song of a bird, the crack of ice in the trees. My subjects range from nature, my interest in other cultures, and to emotions common to all of us. I try to express these feelings and recognition of our special environment.
Color and form are the most important influences on my work. My goal is to invite the viewer into the work, to offer a unique perception of the world and our place in it. Hopefully the initial view will draw the observer closer to notice the details, the hidden pieces.
Fabric, fibers, paints, beads, and embellishments of many kinds may be included in a piece. Layers and textures convey the complexity of life at every level. I use the latest in technical equipment to create my work, but the feelings I hope the viewer will experience are awareness and an appreciation of life.
" One does not discover new lands
without consenting to lose sight
of the shore for a very long time"
Andre Gide