Emergency Working Artist Project Grant FY22

Each size rug requested requires a different setup (lumber and basic hardware). And for teaching, it's going to require 1 on 1, or my Zoom classroom. It's going to allow me to clear my space of excess fabric, fund my life, and share this technique with others. Additionally, as I continue my ongoing regular work, I will be able to keep the large trimmings from completed pieces and work those into future rugs, and they'll become a part of the greater body of work. Selling the rugs will keep me in my home and enable me to continue working on my own quilted artworks freely, without bending to what society wants, but rather showing society who I am. While my work has sold fairly well, I often count on mainstream work to keep myself afloat. These rugs will do that, while the fabrication (aside from the startup looms, dyes, supplies) is largely free since the fabric is donated and sourced without cost. My word is the only thing I own outright. I have made a name for myself as a quilt artist and during this pandemic, I kept myself from being forgotten. By continuing to create new work, I can keep my message alive and continue to inspire others. I live and breathe fabric and creativity, and this upcycling and repurposing is an environmental necessity, that will also elevate my brand. Before leaving Orlando for Duluth in 2017, I completed a quilt drive for Pulse survivors and first responders, and my work on three committees. I get things done. My series that I created last year showed online and sold out. in 23 days. Goals are meant to be met. The request list for rugs is a good hint that this will be successful. And, I will know I've been successful when the classes start booking up (I have a few requests for those). I think my main obstacle after initial funding is making sure I have a 55/45 ratio of woven/stretch fabrics as that's what makes the rugs work. I can make 5-7 rugs a month and if I sell 1-2 a month, it will take a lot of pressure off of working side gigs and give me more creative time for my own work.