Page 17 - The Art of Knowing Studio Fiber Art Portfolio

In my first teaching job, I created a 12’ X 20’ mural of the Pied Piper in my music classroom during the
summer break. For my own children, there was the mural of wall-height baby Disney characters (Mickey,
Pluto, Daffy) and in the upstairs hallway oversized mice in various states of play, with a devious cat on the
nursery door. Art took on different forms after that. A sewing expedition into funky aprons, a couture coat,
and baptismal gowns, a foray into hat making – yes, I have a dozen hat blocks, the buckram, sinamay,
ribbon, feathers…, and a one hit wonder with watercolor.

Frankly, I tripped into making my portraits with wool fiber in 2013 and found I really enjoyed both the
wet-scrubbing process as well as needle felting. A unique aspect to my fiber pieces is the addition of non-
fiber elements which add depth and dimension to the piece and detail to the story. I’m now shifting a bit
toward expressing the power and marvel of nature with the wool and think it will be powerful.

Early 2020, I began exploring pastels which are a rewarding joy for me. As a life-long learner I thrive on
studying past masters and how their unique technique turned paper and color into depictions of life. I
have the benefit of learning from today’s accomplished artists around the world through online
instruction. I am inextricably drawn to portraying the human condition and hope that each work evokes
emotions from those who see them.

I look forward to hearing from you, your reactions, your stories, your questions….and your journey.

Sheila

Sheila's MANIFESTO

Exercise integrity in the moment of choice ~ Take action with courage ~ Walk with
boldness ~ Dance in faith ~ Stand tall on your truth ~ Evolve ~ Live your
values ~ Laugh out loud – wildly & often ~ Marvel at the magnificent wonder of the
sky, the intoxicating aroma of the earth, the provocative vibration of music in
everything, the sensual feel of the wind and rain and thunder and breath, the

energizing flavor of every encounter ~ Require little, give much ~ It's OK to
say "enough!" ~ Hold gratitude closely and outcomes loosely ~ Expect good,

celebrate wonder, revel in spirit