April 29, 2016
Hilde Morin, a fiber artist, looks for drama in the creation of her art quilts. Drama in the form of color, texture and pattern.
Hilde finds inspiration in both natural and in architectural scenes, having a particular interest in cities, towns, buildings and weathered structures. In natural scenes, she represents reality by simplifying or suggesting it through either abstract or primitive designs. Her technique includes the creation of a first layer of improvised pieced fabric with the addition of a second layer of texture through extensive thread work and surface design.
Hilde’s creations are influenced by her multi-cultural background and travels.
We are pleased to welcome Hilde to the Hudson River Valley Art Workshops this year. She will teach a five-day Fiber Arts class, In and Around Town, October 9 to 15, 2016.
How long have you been teaching and what got you started teaching?
I have been teaching for 15 years. After quitting my corporate job to be more involved with my kids, I joined an open-sew group at a local quilt shop. We shared projects, discussed works in progress and gave each other ideas and advice. After a few months I was asked by the storeowner to teach a workshop. I have enjoyed teaching since then!
What is your favorite part about teaching?
Guide each of my students in translating their ideas into a design that is pleasing to them and also doable. Demonstrate sewing tips and techniques to use during the construction process.
Challenge my students to do more than what they think they can do.
What would you tell your prospective students are three best reasons for taking a workshop?
You will work in a very freeing environment where my guidance, tips and techniques will help you produce work that has your marks and is unique.
I will gently challenge you to do things outside of your comfort zone.
Every piece has its own design and construction challenges. Sharing how to resolve these in a class setting is very valuable for everyone and we all learn.
What are you currently working on in your own art?
I am waiting for inspiration to quilt El Vecindario (The neighborhood) which I just finished piecing. In the meantime I started working on a new piece inspired by a market with food carts in Portland, OR. So far I have chosen the colors and made a few lines on my design wall.
Where is your art currently being exhibited?
Two pieces (Where To Stay/Where To Go) are currently being shown at the Chehalem Cultural Center in Newberg, OR as part of a group exhibit “A Sense of Place: The Allison Inn.” My latest piece, Between Light and Shadow just came back from a 2-month long exhibit at the Visions Art Museum in San Diego, CA.
Is your work represented in galleries, and if so, what hints would you give to artists looking for gallery representation?
My work has been represented in two galleries, Maria Elena Kravetz Gallery in Argentina, and Studio 503 in Hood River, Oregon. In my opinion, showing professionalism is the most important requirement when dealing with a gallery. Professionalism in every step: communication, portfolio presentation, work quality, pricing scheme. Also, making yourself available and having current work to show are very important.
Do you sell your work in any online gallery?
Not really, but I have sold much work through my website.
What is your favorite art quote?
I am not sure I have a favorite art quote but instead I will tell you what my favorite principle is: Start by doing small things right.
Describe your studio.
After “surfing” spare rooms and guest rooms for 10 years, I now have a beautiful dedicated studio…my favorite part of the house! It is divided in two sections, my sewing studio and my teaching studio. My sewing studio is where everything happens and it is usually quite busy. My teaching studio is where I teach groups of 6 people and where I keep a gallery of quilts on display for inspiration. Of course, I spread out through both sections when I don’t have classes scheduled!
Name five of your “can’t do without” tools/products.
I am a minimalist and can work with very little. Other than sewing machine, fabric and thread, these are musts:
A design wall
A good lamp
Music
A camera
My computer