I’ve been super busy but here is November’s blog post only a few weeks late! Our meeting this month was a bit different:
Meg Cowey, a leading figure in the Western Australian Quilters Association (WAQA), led a groundbreaking workshop for the Contemporary Quilt Group. The session focused on harnessing the power of technology to enhance the creative process. Among the tools introduced was ChatGPT, an AI-powered language model. Attendees learned how to utilise ChatGPT to craft compelling artist statements for their quilt art. By integrating cutting-edge technology into their practice, participants gained invaluable insights into articulating their artistic vision with clarity and precision. Meg Cowey’s innovative approach underscores the importance of embracing new technologies to push the boundaries of traditional craftsmanship in the contemporary quilting community.
ChatGPT wrote that paragraph! ^^
Surprisingly for a talk about AI we were in fits of laughter and Meg kept telling us (rather unconvincingly – she was laughing as well) to take it seriously. Meg showed us how to get ChatGPT to give us a title and artist statement for these quilts. ChatGPT also wrote the title for this blog post.
Susan told us all about her course with Nancy Crow.
Susan Sheath, a passionate quilter, embarked on an enriching creative odyssey by attending a Nancy Crow quilt workshop. Nestled in a vibrant studio, Susan delved into Crow’s world-renowned techniques, discovering the intricate dance of colour, pattern, and texture in quilt-making. Guided by Crow’s expertise, Susan explored new dimensions of design, pushing the boundaries of her craft. With each stitch, she witnessed her vision unfurl into a masterpiece, fueled by inspiration and camaraderie among fellow artisans. Susan’s journey epitomises the transformative power of artistic immersion, igniting a flame of innovation that continues to illuminate her quilting endeavours.
^^ LOL- not quite what she said ChatGPT!
Susan came back from the workshop with a rather strange shaped beginning to her quilt and several random pieces.
We saw lots of other quilts that Susan and others have made in the style of Nancy Crow. Click the images in the gallery below to see full size.
There were a selection of books to browse, some of which are available to borrow from our library.
Continuing on with the colourful theme we had a book review and example by Julie – Colour Lab for Mixed Media Artists.
Of course there were many other lovely things displayed by members for show and tell. Click the images in the gallery below to see them full size.
In the afternoon members had a go at trying to order colour samples by value (light or dark). A good way to check if you have it right is to take a black and white picture.
In quilt design, value reigns supreme over color. While hues may catch the eye, it’s value—the lightness or darkness of a fabric—that truly defines a quilt’s visual impact. Value creates depth, contrast, and dimension, guiding the viewer’s gaze and highlighting intricate patterns. Whether using a monochromatic palette or a riot of colors, mastering value ensures harmony and balance in every quilt. It’s the subtle shifts in shading that bring a design to life, showcasing the artistry and skill of the quilter. So, remember, in the world of quilting, value is not just a shade—it’s the foundation of great design.
^^Thanks ChatGPT. Until next time…
contemporarywa 