Many artists join or create small groups for sharing and critique which becomes an important part of their art practice. Working in a small group is a way to bounce ideas off each other and think about design principles in your work and others’ work. It allows you to share and see your work in a trusted environment. See both your work and that of others through different eyes, to grow and learn as an artist.
In this article, Sassy shares how their small group came together and how they work together to grow their practices.
Sassy is group of five close friends who have woven a tapestry of creativity, exploration, and camaraderie through a common love of quilting.
After retirement, all five had separately joined the large regional organization Genesee Valley Quilt Club which serves a multi-county area of western New York. None had previously met, but through several encounters at club events, we discovered common interests in types of quilting, incorporating photography, using computer apps, and a need for new friendships after leaving active careers.
What began as informal get-togethers in each other’s homes has evolved into regular daytime meetings two to three times a month. Each session lasts at least three hours and always includes lunch.
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We have found five members to be an ideal size and when other quilters approach us about joining, we encourage them to form their own group. Our deep friendships are the backbone of this group and have helped sustain us through family issues (both serious and joyous), a myriad of health problems, and adjusting to the journey of aging.
Our meetings have a set agenda that we are always willing to amend and may include activities like group challenges, learning new techniques, watching class videos together, and helping each other with design issues, finishing techniques, or finding that perfect piece of fabric.
Show and Tell is always on the agenda. Our greatest strength is our ability to listen to each other without judgment and support each other on our personal and artistic journeys.
What is one of the biggest benefits of participating in a small group?
Jessie: The sense of trust and commitment we have in each other.
Sue: Having enough people in the group to receive different feedback on my work, but not so many people that my own ideas are lost.
Beth: Being with people who “get me” and hear me.
Peggy: Being able to reflect on my work in a safe environment.
Marcia: Always having someone who can help and support my work.
How has that influenced your journey as a quilter?
Jessie: It enhances my creativity as an artist.
Sue: I will try things that require a large labor and material investment.
Beth: It gives me an impetus to start and a destination for my work.
Peggy: I am more confident and willing to try new things.
Marcia: I am more willing to take risks and experiment with things I believed I would dislike.
What one conversation from one of your small group meetings impacted your work the most?
Jessie: Conversations around success and failure and how to then create a “design opportunity.”
Sue: It is the ongoing conversations that keep me excited about my creative journey.
Beth: The continuous boost of inspiration always leave me energized.
Peggy: The preparation for the talk Sassy is giving at the Genesee Valley Quilt Club on working in a small group has had great impact on understanding my own methods.
Marcia: The conversation where we decided the group was ready to have its own exhibit focused us all on our collective, as well as individual, work.
Each member of Sassy brings her distinct artistic personality to the group.
Jessie’s eclectic style includes original design, working with silks, and creating gift quilts.
Her preferred color palette is:
Jessie’s Quilts:
Sue is also very eclectic in her style and uses photography and technology to enhance her prolific output of quilts and bags.
Her preferred color palette is:
Sue’s quilts:
Beth’s style includes Modern Quilting, improvisational work, and design-as-you-go quilting.
Her preferred color palette is:
Beth’s Quilts:
Peggy is both eclectic and improvisational; she enjoys appliqué, handwork, and dyeing.
Her preferred color palette is:
Peggy’s Quilts:
Marcia’s collage quilts have become her signature style, but she is also known for using hand-made silk-fusion and incorporating mathematical themes in her work.
Her preferred color palette is:
Marcia’s Quilts:
Article posted January 2025
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