"Reconceived" by Jennifer Candon won 1st Place - Improvisation at QuiltCon 2024.

Artist Statement: "Preconceived ideas of composition often get in the way. I am learning to have faith in myself as an artist and realizing the importance of letting an artwork evolve and become its own thing during the making process.

I began work on this piece with a completely different composition and color scheme in mind. As it grew, technical and design realities made me realize that my original conception was not the best path forward. I gave up control and followed a new direction - one that was unclear but was an improvisational collaboration between the materials and maker.

In my experience, the creative process is an evolution that requires playing, experimenting and reconception. By letting go, the piece is strengthened."

Techniques and Materials Used: Quilted Textile Mural, Sewn with my hand-dyed linen, Upholstery Fabric and Quilting Cotton.

(Photos from jennifercandon.com)