“GERTRUDE”

02.2022

The art quilt is based on a photograph by Gertrude Stanton Käsebier “Portrait of a Young Woman”, an American photographer who lived in the early 20th century.

dimensions: diameter 100cm

technique: applique with raw edge, free-hand quilting and embroidery, hand-dyed background, fabric inks

The quilt is based on a photograph by Gertrude Stanton Käsebier "Portrait of a Young Woman", an American photographer living in the early 20th century.

dimensions: diameter 100cm

technique: appliqué with raw edge, free-hand quilting and embroidery, hand-dyed background, fabric inks

When I saw the photograph by Gertrude Stanton Käsebier the first time, I immediately knew I wanted to sew a patchwork based on it. I was captivated by this clear, mesmerising gaze. I wondered who the girl in the photo was. So much peace and confidence beams from this portrait. It is amazing that a moment captured 120 years ago suddenly comes to life in my living room. As if the universe had pressed pause for a moment and turned it off just now. Looking at this beautiful young girl, I sometimes have the impression that she is also looking at me "from the other side of the mirror". I feel an inexplicable bond with her.

Curious about the photographic output of Gertrude Stanton Käsebier, I read her biography. She was a very courageous, enterprising and artistically gifted woman. Her character fits very well with the girl in the portrait. Somehow these two women meld into one symbolic existence for me. That is why I decided to name this fabric portrait after Gertruda.