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Preview: New quilts and fiber art shows at Dunedin Fine Art Center

 
Published May 28, 2015

Summer at the Dunedin Fine Art Center means quilts. For years, the center has exhibited fine-craft quilts from national and area groups, expanding our definition of them. Still rooted in their humble origins as inexpensive coverings made for warmth from fabric scraps, the quilts you'll see here are not humble and most are no longer hand-sewn. That hand-sewing component was an issue for quilting purists but most now acknowledge the merits of computerized machines that still allow for artistic creativity.

"Quilt National 2013" is a collection of 22 examples selected from 1,000 entries from the U.S. and abroad. This show has a reputation for edgy interpretations (if a quilt can be edgy).

"Illumination: The Art Cloth Network" is organized by the Art Cloth Network, which promotes fiber art. So you won't see quilts but you will find a well-curated range in the medium.

"Tampa Bay Surface Design Guild" is another show of fiber art from a talented group of area artists.

"Elemental: Florida Quilt Invitational" is a themed show in which Florida quilters used the four elements — earth, air, fire and water — as inspiration.

The center also has a silent auction of small quilts to benefit its education programs and a fun display of sock puppets made by local artists. Of course, it's titled "Sock It To Me."

All are open Friday and continue through Aug. 16. Opening reception on Friday from 7 to 9 p.m. is $10.

The Dunedin Fine Art Center, 1143 Michigan Blvd., is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is $10 adults; $8 seniors; $5 students with ID, and free for children under 12. dfac.org or (727) 298-3322.

Lennie Bennett, Times art critic