Greetings!
I’m Leanne, an international presenter, educator, artist, designer, and photographer behind Sumac Studios. I’ve been designing and creating quilts since the mid-90s and working with photography even longer. Today, my focus is on expanding my #QuiltYourAdventure collection, featuring work that includes Ireland, Antarctica, and the Galapagos, with upcoming additions of Southern Africa, Jordan, and Greece.
Artist Statement
Every stitch and pattern of a quilt narrates a story, transforming fabric into a canvas. Since 2016, my work has challenged me creatively. I started by capturing the story of travel then moved to embodying the spirit of adventure, making the journey approachable.
It began with the “Ireland Inspired” collection, intertwining intricate Celtic knots from the “Book of Kells” with the vibrant hues of Ireland captured in my photographs. This collection not only reflects the beauty of Ireland but also weaves a deeper connection with its rich heritage.
Transitioning from the tangible inspiration of Ireland, my Antarctic series delved into the unknown, guided by research and the anticipation of unseen landscapes. This body of work explores questions or discovery around Antarctica. The findings lean heavily towards science and its role in Antarctica, where imagination meets reality at the bottom of the world.
The Galapagos collection stands as the culmination of my exploration, where reality and anticipation merge. It combines research with the experiences of my journey, capturing the vibrant colors of the Galapagos. Some pieces anticipate the adventure, while others are inspired from the visit. Together, they will complete the body of work.
My quilts and photography are more than just fabric and images; they are stories of exploration, capturing the essence of each adventure. Through color, pattern, and texture, they invite viewers on a visual journey, offering a window into the universal quest for discovery. Each piece is a testament to the beauty of our world and the endless stories it holds, waiting to be told through the art of quilting.
What’s in a name?
Sometimes things are right in front of you, but requires a moment of quiet and reflection. After numerous attempts of settling on a name, it came to me one day as I was driving home to clear out my parents home in the autumn of 2021.
The original farm sign that my parents hung proudly on the family farm for more than twenty-five years was still hanging in the basement. As I reflected on moving that sign, I found myself transported back in time to “Sumac Stock Farms”.
In that moment, Sumac Studios was born. While sumac is a tree, it was also a combination of nicknames – my mother Su(e) for Suzanne and Mac, my father’s nickname in his youth. Both were key in nurturing my creative … my mother through creative arts projects in 4-H and my father who purchased my first camera. This my way to say ‘thank you’ and have their legacy continue.
Slán,
Leanne
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