Inside the Artist Studio – Quilts by Nalan Weaver

“Where flowers bloom so does hope”

….

Inside the Artist’s Studio with Nalan Weaver

Local fiber artist and best-selling quilter, Nalan Weaver creates wall hangings and tabletop pieces that are a wonderful blend of elegant quilted patterns combined with striking colored fabrics. Nalan’s quilts are like no others.

This month, Mountain Made gallery is happy to share Nalan thoughts and unique artistic viewpoints on as part of our continuing series “Inside the Artist’s Studio.”

As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?

As I as child growing up in Turkey, I played volleyball, all my school years. At the time I would have liked to pursue a professional life as a player or coach. Apparently it was not in my cards.  There was a better plan for me.

When did you first realize you wanted to be an artist?

I never thought I could create something.  Then one cold March 1993, I found myself buying fabric and my first quilting book.  I hand pieced  a lap quilt together.  I was very excited. This was before my husband sent me out to shop for a sewing machine.

How long does it take you to create one of your pieces?

It depends on what is going around.  Winter seems to be the best time of the year for me.  I spend more time indoors than any other time.

What is your schedule like when you are working?

I like to work during the day, and finish what I started. Although sometimes I have several projects going at the same time.

What would you say is your interesting quirk while working?

I like to have  company in my studio. At first it was my husband, but now music, or even a movie playing on my tablet.

Where do you get your ideas or inspiration for your artwork?

I like to use bright colors in my quilts. My inspiration comes from the flowers and plants in my garden.

What do you like to do when you are not working on your art?

I am an avid gardener, cook and yogini. I love just sitting and watching a dragonfly hover on my koi pond,hummers, all nature beings make me happy.<

Often I work in my garden 3-4 hours daily, all season. Also attend daily yoga practice. I also find baking and cooking very therapeutic. Lately I find myself baking bread very often.

What was one the most surprising things you learned while creating your art?

Usually I start with one color, and build around it. I add layers like petals in a flower.

How many pieces do you think you have created?
Hard to say, how many quilts I made.  I will say a lot.

Which pieces are your favorites? How do you decide on which ideas to develop?

If I don’t like what’s going on with a piece I have started, I don’t finish it. I just Let go…at least for it for the time being.

Do you hear from your fans? What kinds of things do they say?

The most rewarding is to hear from someone who has purchased one of my quilts. When they send pictures of their rooms with my quilts hanging on their walls, is the best.. Reward.

What do you think makes good art?

Art to me is WHAT MAKES A PERSON FEEL GOOD.