JoAnn Deck

 For me it always begins with the color, and then the elements. My work is about process, first the coloring of the papers and/or fabric, then selection of unlikely combinations of elements and materials. For my collage work I particularly find irresistible those things that aren’t considered to be “artist materials". Often these are not at first, recognizable, if ever. I add texture, shape and depth to the surface by searching through my vast collection of finds and cast-offs for just the perfect compositional components for each piece. I particularly enjoy the thrill of finding and transforming something someone else has discarded as useless.

I believe God has blessed me with a keen sensitivity to color harmonies along with the ability to combine many diverse and unusual elements and techniques. I entreat the viewer to “come in close.” My art pieces are “built” layer upon layer, technique upon technique with intuitive and spontaneous development fueled by the colors and diversity of materials. For over 30 years I have been striving to make something wonderful from mostly nothing.

Solo Exhibits:
2007 – Downers Grove Library, Downers Grove, IL
2004 – TLD Design Center & Gallery, Westmont, IL
2002 – Great American Bagel Gallery, Westmont, IL
2002 – Westmont Library, Westmont, IL

Selected Group Exhibits:
2007 – Norris gallery, St. Charles, IL
2007 – Tall Grass Art Association, Park Forest, IL
2007 – The Kavanagh Gallery, St. Charles, IL
2007 – Greater Chicago Quilt Festival, Schaumburg, IL
2006 – Mid-Atlantic Quilt Festival, Hampton, VA
2006 – Quilt Fest of New Jersey, Somerset, NJ
2006 – Central Florida Quilt Guild, Orange City, FL
2005 – LaGrange Art League Gallery, LaGrange, IL

Juror Awards:
2006 – Mid-Atlantic Quilt Festival, Hampton, VA
Jazz Music, received BEST USE Of Color
Judges; Mary Mashuta & Betty Boynik

Education:
Bachelor of Arts Candidate/Independent Study

joanndeck@comcast.net

May 16, 2008

Click here to View JoAnn's Work