Gail Naughton

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Prostitute Judge Gail Naughton Cedar Rapids IA

Iam a textile artist who is discovering her distinctive style. My creativity was expressed for decades through sewing, including a business making appliquéd children’s clothes in the 1970s that were sold in retail stores in three states. While I have a science degree, I also completed the coursework, but not the final project, for a master’s degree in Quilt History from the University of Nebraska. The final step on my career path was as the President and CEO of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, which has a stunning textile collection. Along the way, I kept sewing and made several large, traditional quilts.

It is said that the most successful retirees have something to do when they retire. Mine was to move into art quilting, which has been a challenging journey. I’ve built skills but I am still searching for my own expression. Joining CST has led me on a more structured path to discover my style as a quilt artist.The challenge of creating a quilt inspired by an archetype led me in a much different direction than I expected. I felt I had to do a realistic or personal piece that was somehow related to my child archetype. I was stymied. Then I realized I never do realistic work and actually have been wanting to do even more graphic bold pieces. So, I let go of my trying-to-please Dilettante and created non-representational Breakthrough – with big swaths of color, graphic shapes, and interesting textures, made from my hand-dyed fabrics and completed with matchstick quilting.

The question was, how was this inspired by an archetype? I looked to my notes and journal for help. Surprisingly, I found the Rebel. I would never have thought of that! I follow recipes. I like to be recognized for doing good. I don’t like to challenge or unsettle people. When I do, I dwell on it forever. I’m not a Rebel. Then I read a note in my journal: “Claim your creative self. Rebelliously protect it and claim it.”

With Breakthrough my art quilting journey has taken a big step. Finally, I gave myself permission to do what I feel compelled to do. By not creating an artwork I felt was expected, I have opened myself to ideas for related works with more to explore within a defined style. I’ve decided I can claim to be a Rebel in my art and still be a nice Dilettante by nature.

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Breakthrough 2021 24" x 32.75" Art Quilt $500