Fun with Fabric Field Trip to Gillan Wang’s Art Studio

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By Robin, Comets & Satellites Teacher

Six BASCP children set off to visit a textile artist Gillan Wang’s art studio. Gillan was a gracious host. She displayed her quilts on a set of foam boards around her dining room, explaining the background and story behind each one. She pointed out techniques she used in each such as “free form” embroidering with a sewing machine. Gillan had a wide range of art works to show the children — calendar quilts, a house-purse (sculpture), a cape, and fiber bowls. She also showed them works in progress. Then the children worked on a group project, planning out and weaving together strips of fabric to make a small quilt.

Lastly, we viewed her studio to see her sewing machines and bins of fabric. There were many quirky and arty things to see in there — a cork bottle assemblage, tree bark, and a pin cushion in the shape of a woman. The children asked Gillan many questions and had an inside view of what it is like to be a professional textile/fiber artist. It was a great deal of fun. The children will continue to work on the quilt started in the studio, adding it to a fabric collage, which will be donated at the end of the class.