Artist Profile: Cathie Hoover

Cathie Hoover 
Modesto, CA
www.cathiehooverstudios.com

1. Did the change in dimensions present any specific challenges for you? No, actually the Reflections dimensions (24 x 60) was more of a challenge. This exhibits size offered an opportunity to really explore my concept. 

2. Describe your design area, specifically your work table:  what is the best thing about it? My worktable is a 4' wide, 8' long "cutting" table with a cork top. I copied it from Yvonne Porcella's studio. I love the enormous size of it! I can cut, pin, baste and paint on top of it!

3. What set this quilt apart from other recent projects you have been working on? Working from your challenge topic is what makes it exciting to me. I spent months trying to come up with a concept, but "Affinity" is a very broad topic; however, when I saw the red barn behind a vineyard full of spring growth, I knew my subject instantly.

4. When you get “stuck” how do you deal with a “design block”?  How do you overcome it? I need time to deal with design blocks. And, these blocks deal with the newness of the design challenge - maybe I don't have the right fabric, or don't feel I can execute what I am trying to do. I love to shop and think about the problem! Then I return home and tackle the "block."

5. Do you work on single or multiple projects at the same time? I concentrate on one textile project at a time. I have recently become interested in painting with watercolors and using acrylic  ink on fabric. I just hosted a 2-day workshop at my home with Judy Coates-Perez on the use of these inks.

6. What do you hope people take away from your work? To be able to appreciate the beauty of a vineyard in the lush of spring growth.

7. What are the best parts of working on an art quilt:  What are your least favorite parts? I have only made a few art quilts and they have all been challenging. I am not a process person; I am in it to finish. When I hold up my finished work, I can hardly believe I created it!

8. What art/quilt-related organizations do you belong to? I am a member of SAQA, IQA, Quilt Alliance, and a local "Art Focus" group in Modesto, CA.

9. Do you have a preferred color palette?  Why? I am always drawn to the lush colors of floral blooms, but have never truly been a fan of green. This quilt of a vineyard has changed my opinion of green. 

10. What do you regard as your most interesting milestones along your art journey? I have truly enjoyed your Dinner@8 challenges and have seen the most personal artistic growth from participating in two.