Their interest in crafting and art first brought four women from across the region together. And now that common thread has led them to collaborate on their first group exhibit at Wick'd Kool Gallery and Gift Shop in downtown Amesbury.
Linda Stein, Linda Carey, Leah Allman and Lisa Phillips met last fall at Crafters Quarters in Amesbury, a crafting space where they design their original art quilts, hand-painted scarves and mixed-media creations.
"It has been serendipitous how we all found each other and the show came together," said Stein, who is presenting her mixed-media work.
A few months ago, their individual work caught the eye of Wick'd Kool owner Deborah Drew. Drew, who offers monthly exhibits in her gallery, was impressed with the textile pieces and began recruiting the women for Wick'd Kool's current spring show.
"I was so excited to meet all these women," Drew said. "It's fun when you have created something to have others view your work and appreciate the creativity."
While some of the women had to be coaxed into displaying their work, others who are more experienced in the exhibit process were happy to find a venue for their creations.
Allman, who has been quilting for two decades, has entered her work in numerous juried shows and won awards for some of her pieces. But despite her experience, she said finding places to display her quilts is a challenge.
"It's hard to find a place to see quilting as an art," she said. "Knowing Wick'd is offering us a gallery space was very exciting."
Jennifer Rogers, who opened Crafters Quarters in Amesbury, said her goal has been to offer artists and artisans a welcoming environment for their creative pursuits. The space contains discussion tables and areas for classes, workshops and journaling, as well as special events like pajama parties, all designed to strengthen the bond among artists, Rogers said.
She added that all of the artists are playing a part in developing Crafters Quarters' extended community.
"I didn't want art to scare people," Rogers said. "I wanted people to feel comfy in this setting."
Phillips' silk scarves are a testament to that supportive environment. New to silk scarf painting, Phillips attended a class led by Allman in late November at Crafters Quarters. She has been hooked on the craft since then.
The artists said they all share the same sentiments on the place that nourishes their craft and the one that is now showing their creations.
"I was hesitant to call myself an artist, but being embraced by Wick'd Kool and working at Crafters Quarters in a nonjudgmental way has really changed my opinion on art," Carey said.
Drew and Rogers said they believe their craft space and gallery were both needed in Amesbury. They are determined to help the arts thrive in town.
"As part of the art community, I want Amesbury to develop into a downtown with a flow and for the community to appreciate art," Drew said.
IF YOU GO
What: Textile art show featuring the artisans of Crafters Quarters in Amesbury
When: Through April
Where: Wick'd Kool Gallery and Gift Shop, 15 Friend St., Amesbury
How: The gallery is open daily; call Wick'd Kool at 978-388-9909 for specific times. Visit www.craftersquarters.com for more.
About the artists
Leah Allman of Peabody: With more than 25 years experience in quilting, Allman's creations feature aquatic and environmental scenes. Allman has won awards in juried shows, and regularly offers lectures, workshops and classes, including some at Crafters Quarters in Amesbury.
Linda Carey of Danville, N.H.: Carey made her first quilt for her daughter 30 years ago and has worked in fabric making for the majority of her life. She has also designed wedding gowns. Her quilts feature environmental scenes.
Lisa Phillips of Amesbury: Phillips has been hand-painting silk scarves since November. Her featured work has been inspired by the history of Nushu writing, the only gender-specific language in the world developed in a remote country of China, which she learned about through Lisa See's novel, "Snow Flower and the Secret Fan."
Linda Stein of Plum Island: Stein, who has spent her life in textiles, is showing her mixed-media pieces, most of which include recycled items. Stein also works in wood, clay and stained glass.
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