Hello there...
There is a very special exhibition currently showing at QAG,
complementing the Quilts: 1700-1945 show from the V&A which is nearing the end of its run.
Ruth Stoneley: A Stitch in Time,
showcases the work of the late Ruth Stoneley, an inspirational figure in the Brisbane art and quilting communities, until her untimely passing in 2007.
Ruth's embroidery and quilting moved from the traditional patterns of quilting into another dimension, as she made abstract and expressive works which reflected her own feelings, emotions and ideas.
She was a much-loved teacher and generously shared her gifts and expertise with many lucky students.
I was one of them for the last three years of Ruth's life, taking various classes in imaginative, free-form embroidery, her distinctive version of crazy patch quilting, and many other projects.
I treasure every item I made under Ruth's keen and artistic eye, and love to know she stitched a little bit here, a little bit there, on some of my pieces.
Ruth's life story is not mine to tell, but like all of us, she knew good times and bad, joy and heartache...
A series of black quilts - which I had never seen before, are shocking, powerful and emotionally charged...
A wedding dress ... it is not known if this was ever worn ...
An abstract take on traditional Log Cabin
Ruth Stoneley died of breast cancer in 2007..
Last piece:
I still meet and regularly stitch with a group of fellow students of Ruth..
Ruthie, we miss you...
Ruth Stoneley: A Stitch in Time continues at Qld Art Gallery until October 7.
Take care of yourselves and each other -
and have a great week!
xxxx
It is lovely that Ruth lives on in her students memories, and also within the stitches she left behind for you all. I am sure you also feel a very strong empathy with her from your own cancer experience.
ReplyDeleteThank you Rosemary, she was a true artist. I was a bit haunted by the memories re the cancer, and of course one asks oneself why does one survive, and why another does not?
DeleteIsn't that jacket wonderful - and to think that all those memories come with it!
ReplyDeleteThe jacket is wonderful, and was worn on special occasions. I think many viewers find themselves inspired by it, Jo.
DeleteSuch exquisite stitchery! And how lucky you were to have been a student. All the pieces you show are museum quality. I love the colors. A true artist.
ReplyDeleteHe stitching was beautiful, Sanda, and museum quality as you say. The QAG began collected her work very early.
DeleteThanks for showing this beautiful stitchery. I like wearable art and that jacket is beautiful
ReplyDeleteDarla
Ruth made numerous pieces of wearable art, including broomstick skirts she knew from visiting the south-west of USA - I made one for myself in one of her classes. The jacket is an absolute stunner.
DeleteThis is my first visit here Patricia, and I just love what you show here on your blog. This post is stunning. I'm not surprised you remember Ruth with such love and reverence. Beautiful work. I'll be back! By the way, I came here via Jo up there, and I live in Holland :-)
ReplyDeleteWelcome to my blog, Val, and I'm glad you liked the post. I like that you live in Holland - I think you are the first reader from there that I know about!
DeleteWhat beautiful designs and stunning colours Patricia, as well as some lovely memories.
ReplyDeletePatricia x
The colours are spectacular - Ruth had a wonderful eye for choosing original and stunning combinations! x
DeletePatricia,
ReplyDeleteHer work is so beautiful and colorful. My sister does stitching and quilts, and I have always thought it was such a talent when one knows how to do this. What a creative and special teacher. So sorry to hear she passed away. She left many gifts behind to her students.
~Sheri
The work is beautiful, Sheri, and as you say it lives on in her work, and in the legacy she left with her students.
Deletehi Patricia thankyou for sharing these beautiful pieces by an obviously talented soul. Wishing you a happy week ahead too. Shell - A Darlings Nest
ReplyDeleteGlad you like them Shell, it is a very popular exhibition.
DeleteLike you Trish I loved the time I spent in Ruth's classes. She was a rare talent. Thanks for sharing your photos. I absolutely loved both exhibitions.
ReplyDeleteHi Michelle, we all loved those classes, and I think everyone has special memories of Ruth. Glad you loved both quilt exhibitions.
DeleteMy favorites are the red ones #5 and 7, both very strong, yet so delicate.
ReplyDeleteReal art pieces.
Thank you for sharing !
They are the ones I am drawn to as well, Mette. The #5 includes paper, foil, and other bits of emphemera - very much an art piece, and not a quilt for washing!
DeleteWow, I never realized that stitching could represent such emotion and expression, much like painted art! I am fascinated!
ReplyDeleteThe wedding dress is so delicate.
I am a new follower from the states! Looking forward to seeing more from you.
-Khammany
Welcome to my blog, Khammany, and thank you for your comment. I think Ruth's work has many elements seen in expressionist paintings, and that is what makes it different and special. I had a peek at your blog: Very Nice!
DeleteDear Patricia
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful tribute to Ruth.
Her stitching is exquisite and each piece tells part of her life's journey.
You were so lucky to be part of her story.
I would love to see the V & A quilts.
Great to catch up with you today Patricia and thank you for your visits to my blog.
Have a happy weekend.
Shane x
Dear Shane, thank you for your comment, and I am glad you enjoyed the post. Your work is not unlike Ruth's in a way - similarly romantic and expressive. You would enjoy the V&A quilts; after three months the crowds are still pouring in. I am enjoying doing personal tours for groups of my friends.
Deletehappy weekend
Patricia x
This are truly wonderful pieces of art, Patricia. Thank you for showing them to us and introducing us to Ruth. Breast cancer has robbed the world of far too many women before their time.
ReplyDeleteGlad you like them, Perpetua, it is quite an experience to see (and feel) the intensity of these pieces.
DeleteSo true re breast cancer; I continue to feel a stab of fear whenever I hear of someone new contracting it. But I'm very happy to have made it through the first year. Hope you continue to enjoy good health.
I have finally worked out how to comment! Still have my L plates in certain areas. I was so happy to catch up on all the blogs after being away for so long. Thank you Red Cardinal and I will see you soon. I have to send it as anonymous as I don't know how to join the others. Maybe it will work, V.
ReplyDeleteHi V, Well done, Girl! You made it into the comments :) be in touch! x
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