Opening Reception for "Art Quilts 31: Constructed Softly"

This exhibition considers how textiles build meaning through softness, layers, mark making, and time—honoring processes often coded as feminine while welcoming all makers and interpretations—honoring voices often hidden and silenced through the open expression of ideas. Through layering, construction, and stitch, these soft materials may be transformed to challenge hierarchies, elevate overlooked labor, and assert the quiet force of making as an act of presence and power.

“This theme resonates with me on a personal level. Having a background in architecture and construction management, I struggle with the conflict between the perceived masculine world of architecture and my artwork. My career in architecture was very industrial focused. While my artwork inherently focuses on nature and organic forms. These two ideas feel worlds apart, but collide in my consciousness. My latest works have been a reflection on the collision of these two worlds.”- Juror, Shelley Ann Rothgeb

How will you interpret “Constructed Softly”? You are invited to interpret this theme from your own perspective. Challenge stereotypes, find your own voice and explore the power in your work. Artists are encouraged to think broadly about layered and stitched fiber works that explore construction through softness, fiber technique and accumulated labor.

About the Juror

Shelley was the sixth generation raised on her family farm in Northern Indiana where she inherited a tradition of making. She was the second in her family to graduate from college after her grandmother completed a degree in Commercial Art at the Fort Wayne Art School in the 1930’s. Following in her Grandmother’s footsteps, Shelley attended one year at the Otis College of Art and Design studying fine art. Then, completed a degree in Architecture at the College of DAAP at the University of Cincinnati.

She continued to pursue artistic endeavors while working and raising a family, but finally rediscovered her passion for fiber art in 2019. Since then, she has been awarded entry into multiple juried local, national and international exhibits. She currently serves as the President of the Board of Directors for Fiber Arts Center AZ.