Patty Sawyer at Gallery 302

BRIDGTON — One of several new artists at Gallery 302, Patty Sawyer specializes in fiber art and quilting.

Sawyer first started quilting as her hobby in the mid-80s. In 2006, she began a professional career mastering her skills with longarming, lecturing, instructing, and quilt judging. She has won numerous awards for her work and delights in sharing her abundant knowledge, shortcuts, tips, and tools. Sawyer’s work has been inspired by her love of color, her natural surroundings, and her creative play.

Sawyer said, “The fabric of everyday life inspires me and serves as my art medium of choice. My truest passion lies in the patchwork process of quilting. Fabric — whether commercially printed, hand-dyed, or stamped — helps me understand and incorporate my love for community, cultures, and traditions.”

She said “I am especially moved by the stories, emotions, and milestones that are presented and celebrated within these fibers and threads, bound and tightly woven together for the legacy of past and future generations. I want my quilting to convey a lifestyle of comfort, healing, and artistic expression, cherished by those who feel connected through the stories they hold.” And, she said, “I also appreciate the organic nature and tactile properties of fabric and similar textiles. I often experiment with the use of a combination of other mediums on fabric as well.”

Today, Sawyer teaches at her lakeside home in Sebago, while continuing to teach, lecture, and judge quilts throughout the country. She was recently elected to the board of the Vermont Quilt Festival, serving as education chair, and maintains memberships in several other major quilt industry organizations.

Although she keeps busy traveling to shows and guilds, she admits that creating wonderful art at home with so many other talented creative retreaters is her real passion and her dream job come true.

Sawyer’s work may be seen at Gallery 302, 112 Main St., Bridgton, Maine. For more information, call 207-647-2787 or visit gallery302.com.