Located at 7 N. Fourth Street in downtown Denton, The Fiber Arts Center of the Eastern Shore’s (FACES) new exhibit features works from the Olde Kent Quilters Repro Bee, Judy Shapiro, and George Laufert. From the Repro Bee’s traditionally inspired red and white collection to the vibrantly colorful modern creations of both Laufert and Shapiro – this exhibit has something for everyone to enjoy. Just in time for the holidays, the exhibit is open Thur., Fri., and Sat., from 12-4pm until January 9th.

The Olde Kent Quilters Repro Bee, of Chestertown, MD, combines the study of 19th century quilting traditions with stories of Quilters Hall of Fame inductees. Their bus trip to see 2011’s sensational “Infinite Variety” exhibit at the New York Armory, was the genesis of their current exhibit, Ode to Infinite Variety. Each Bee member’s design inspiration came from a quilt in Joanna Rose’s collection of over 650 red and white quilts. These 26” by 32” quilts show a small portion of the visual impact, diversity, and creativity of Joanna’s collection. Members of the Repro Bee include Betty Ann Grant, Gerry Vaughan, Cathy Morin, Emily Williamson, Martha Holland, Sandee Trakat, Judi Gunter, Alice Reinbold, Marge Celuska, Judy Buchman, and Beverly Birkmire.

Judy Shapiro’s Quilts and Beads exhibit showcases her work as a liturgical quilter and an avid beader. As a child growing up in Chevy Chase, the stained glass windows in her church fascinated her. This led to a great appreciation of color, art, and faith. In her professional career she spent time working for the US Supreme Court before leaving to pursue her dream to become an artist. She is a past artist in residence of the Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, DC; and some of her works are permanently installed in the Washington National Cathedral, as well as many other churches. After many years, Judy became reacquainted with beads while finishing her first Baltimore album quilt, and has since become a beading teacher. Of particular interest to her are complex beading, woven neckpieces, and beaded appliqué. She loves to teach courses in the embellishment of quilts and other objects. She says, “Quilts and beads are a natural combination.”

George Laufert is a retired Federal and State employee who lived with his family in the same zip code his entire life (21224 – Baltimore City and County); that is, until a life altering move to Easton in 2007. He now has the time to participate in activities that were not as readily available to him before, e.g., boating, swimming, socializing, exercising, music, reading, volunteering and art. He is the proud father of two sons and proud grandfather of five grandchildren. On display are three pieces of George’s own design and embroidery. The first is a “Sampler,” so named because he wanted to incorporate lots of different stitches. Second is “Compass Rose” to which he looks to as a Mandela. And last is “Vortex,” he wanted to spin the viewer down into a vortex and not give a way out.

FACES is a destination for the area’s many quilt and fiber art enthusiasts, visitors, and residents to view historic and recent works by fiber artists from the Delmarva Peninsula. It is a unique place to visit, shop, learn, and find inspiration. Call 410-479-1009 for more information.