"Bald Eagle with USA Flag and Cap Rock" by Rhonda Denney and Natalia Lashko was their entry into the IMQE.

Artist Statement: "This is my first experience with IMQE and I loved it! I thought it would be fun to get to know someone from another country and share our creative juices! My partner is from the Ukraine (thank goodness for translation engines!) I had a wonderful time getting to know Natalya. We both shared photos of our work. What I learned through our interaction and sharing is that creativity has no language barriers. The creative crafts that are done in the Ukraine may include some different materials (such as straw) but the beauty of handcrafted items speaks a universal language. We quickly discussed and decided on the size and theme of our exchange piece. We wanted to create am 18”x18” mini-quilt with a depiction of something (like an animal) symbolizing our country, along with other things representing where we live. I chose a bald eagle representing the USA, along with our American flag. I also included a geographical feature, Cap Rock, representing where I live in Colorado. I combined fabric, pigments and stitching to create my art quilt. I learn something more every time I make a piece. I loved the experience and feel that I now have a new international friend who shares my love of fabric embellishment and stitching. I also believe we will continue our discussions and sharing despite any potential challenges of language differences after this is over. One of these days I want..."