The Omnibus

Issue date: 2/3/10 Section: Gallery

Most students probably cannot see how a quilter can be a rebel, but for artist Susan Leslie Lumsden she considers herself one. The exhibit "Magic Time" in Driskill Gallery definitely portrays the rebelliousness of the traditional quilter.
"I often break 'rules' that I find meaningless and I tend to work in my own color palettes," said Lumsden on her website. "To accomplish this I usually work in silks and dye them myself."
Lumsden began learning fiber art in 1997 and now works out of a studio in Thayer. Her work has gained many collectors' eyes in the United States and has also traveled the world.
Lumsden has won numerous awards including the 2007 Niche Award and has had work featured on the Missouri Arts Awards poster and in the Art in Embassies Program through the State Department.
"Whether creating a large-scale work for a very public space or a small piece for a very private one, my approach is one of play and insouciance," said Lumsden. "Even subjects as intense as racism and child abuse are approached with a light heart and an attempt to get people involved and talking."
"Reconcilable Differences" was created with scraps from previous works. Words including our, we, me and us are imbedded into piece. The intention of the piece is to think of "we" instead of "I" when trying to settle conflicts.
"While feeling happy, I decided to now dive into my stash and found every bright colored scrap I could," said Lumsden on her website. "Placed next to each other the colors were too strong for my eyes. It created a somewhat intermingled forest of dancing patterns."
This intermingled forest of dancing patterns is entitled "Neon Cha Cha" and is full of vibrancy and intricate patterns within each frame of the piece.
A humorous piece included in the exhibit is "35 Years--She Still Turns Me On." The depiction of a married couple is funny and reminds the viewers that even older people can still be madly in love with their significant others.
"Listening For The Silence" depicts trees in a somewhat eerie, yet tranquil manner. The piece is done in greys, blacks and whites which give a chilly or winter scene.
The exhibit features approximately 22 pieces of enjoyable art pieces and will are display now through Feb. 19. The gallery is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information contact Gallery Director Diana Callahan.

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