SEAMSIDE: Exploring the Inner Work of Textiles

As an a Southern expat living in a northern state, it’s often nice to connect with somebody from home. We see things about our roots now that perhaps we didn’t when we were growing up immersed in the culture, and how we make sense of all that, for me and Clare at least, requires the help of textiles.Clare Hu was born in Atlanta to parents who’d immigrated from China in the 1990s. Clare now lives in Brooklyn, and in this conversation we explore:① the role movement and immigration can play in an artist’s work② how we can build bridges to the past no matter where we find ourselves in the present③ how we can take up space in this world and exercise our powerYou can learn more about Clare on their website and Instagram⤷ Get your free trial to the THE QUILTY NOOK⤷ Theme music: Roll Jordan Roll by the Joy Drops⤷ Subscribe to SEAMSIDE and you’ll get a note as soon as a podcast posts

Ashelyn (website, Instagram, podcast) and me dream up a quilt that 1) made out of sheet metal and old road signs, and 2) is meant to be displayed on a highway overpassWant to be on the show? Call the CRAZY QUILT HOTLINE open 24/7 at (828) 278-8211‬ and leave me a message anytime of day or night⤷ Get your free trial to the THE QUILTY NOOK

Sylvan and I sit down a year later to catch up on where their work has taken them since we last talked. In that conversation on Episode 7 we talked about their work with Gays Against Guns, and at the time of that recording, we didn't know that the shooting at the supermarket in Buffalo was just a few days away. Sylvan also shares some hard one wisdom from years of activism, and their insights are both a balm and encouragement for anyone who seeks to make this world a better place through their work.⤷ Subscribe to SEAMSIDE to get a notification when a new episode posts⤷ Get your free trial to the THE QUILTY NOOK

Marlee Grace, a writer, dancer, and quilter based in rural Michigan, shares their journey of self-identification as non-binary and how it shapes their creative expression. They discuss feeling like an outsider in the quilting world and advocate for inclusivity in quilting education. Marlee reflects on the emotional and historical significance of quilts, the importance of personal connections, and the therapeutic power of vibrant colors in their work. They emphasize creating art for personal fulfillment rather than external validation.

Udita (website and @uditau) and me dream up a quilt that 1) has a snake resting on a branch, and 2) is also a stained-glass windowCall the CRAZY QUILT HOTLINE open 24/7 at (828) 278-8211‬ and leave me a message anytime of day or night⤷ Get your free trial to the THE QUILTY NOOK

In this conversation with quilter Judy Martin, we explore: ① the tole time plays in our work② how we can meet ourselves in our materials③ how our creative arc shifts over timeYou can learn more about Judy on her website and instagram.⤷ Get your free trial to the THE QUILTY NOOK⤷ Theme music: Roll Jordan Roll by the Joy Drops

Hannah (@_hagtime and @ragfairtextiles) and I dream up a quilt that will 1) help you survive a trip over Niagara Falls, and 2) is inspired by a goldfishWant to be on the show? All contestants are asked to call the CRAZY QUILT HOTLINE open 24/7 and leave me a voicemail (and don't worry, it won't actually ring my phone so call anytime. The number to call is >>> (828) 278-8211‬

Victoria Gertenbach and I sit down a year later to catch up on where her work has taken her since we last talked. Have you heard our original conversation? You can listen to it hereSupport SEAMSIDE alum Lou Gardiner who been re-diagnosed recently with cancer. You can find her Gofundme page here.

In this conversation with quilter Coulter Fussell, we explore: ① role community plays in her work② maintains hope in the face of conflict and turmoil③ the South and family historyYou can learn more about Coulter on her website and instagram.⤷ Get your free trial to the THE QUILTY NOOK⤷ Theme music: Roll Jordan Roll by the Joy Drops

I have wanted to follow up with Maura ever since she first joined us on SOFT BULK. Her candor and generosity radiate easily in this conversation as we discuss:① the balance of tensions between art-making and parenthood② the work and writings of sculptor Anne Truitt③ how to build a sustainable commission process for yourselfYou can learn more about Maura on her website and instagram.