Artist Statement
Joan Webb
Studio 6
Creative Arts and Event Center
2 W. Main St.
Greenfield, IN 46140

Whether cloth to make a traditional quilt or an art quilt, paper to make hand bound books or hand dying and painting fabric, fiber is usually involved in my art. The process of surface design on fabric and paper is the creative process that helps keep balance in my life.

Hand dyed cotton and silk fabrics using various dyeing techniques are the artistic pursuits that started my current art work. Fabric has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, but over the last twenty years, creating colorful hand dyed fabric has been a passion. Sometimes it is difficult to cut into the fabric—I just like to look at the bright colors and patterns that emerge from the process. Using the fabrics to make book cloth for hand bound journals lets others enjoy these colorful creations.

Even with our digital age, there are still many people that prefer to write down their thoughts or keep their art journals in a book that is unique and fits their personality. The prices of my books are higher than you would pay for a manufactured journal, yet are still affordable for those who appreciate the uniqueness of my journals.

As a registered nurse, I often work with patients that are battling chronic health issues. When caring for my patients, I get a feeling of accomplishment when I can help them have a positive outlook and gain the strength to battle their illnesses with a positive outlook. Creating art helps keep me positive. In the near future, I hope to share my passion for art with patients recovering from major illnesses. Many will undoubtedly say, “I’m not artistic.” However, I hope to convince them that, “It is not always about how good your art is, but how good art is for you.” Joan Webb 2015