Paula Kovarik is a full-time artist and fiber art teacher based in Memphis, TN. She holds a degree in design and art history from Southern Illinois University and spent over 30 years as a professional designer before transitioning to a full- time art practice. Kovarik creates intricate, story-rich fiber artworks that fuse intuitive stitching with conceptual depth. Her award-winning work has been recognized by Quilt National, Quilts=Art=Quilts, World of Threads, and FiberArt Now—Excellence in Fibers. She has been profiled in Smithsonian American Craft and FiberArt Now magazines. Kovarik’s quilts are featured in major publications, including Art Quilts Unfolding – 50 Years of Innovation and Art Quilts International: Abstract & Geometric. Her work is part of several permanent collections, including the International Quilt Museum in Lincoln, NE, the Memphis International Airport, and various private collections.
Workshop: At Play in the Garden of Stitch
Using stitch in artwork begins with an expressive line. Learn to focus on the character of line through simple drawing, composition and stitching exercises. Participants will accumulate a toolbox of techniques for seeing, interpreting and completing concept-driven work through stitch. Open to all skill levels.
- First we make a mess. Begin to see that line is active and reactive.
- Embrace the wonky. Learn to make the most of whatever occurs by joining ideas to line motifs and see what develops.
- Think in thread. Translate visual stimuli into pathways by stitching in continuous line.
- Cut it up! Use your stitching samples to create unique compositions and 3D forms.