WOOLPACK WEDNESDAYS: Kay Haerland

Travel, Culture and Nature informs Kay Haerland's finely detailed and enchanting works.

AQatS Friend and Former Committee Member

Kay's Statment:

Growing up in unspoiled New Zealand, I developed a strong love of nature, which I share with my Norwegian-born husband Bård. We lived in several European countries, and in Pennsylvania, USA, for 20 years. That was where my quilting journey started.... and it has now entered another phase with our family move to Australia, - continuing our International lifestyle. Our son David was born in
England, and is now here in Australia with us.

Nature is a constant source of inspiration for me. There I find endless variety of shape and texture, all with its own innate logic of geometry and coloration. My quilts are often intricately realistic in detail, and require a lot of research.

After close to 20 years of quilting, - this whole field is more fascinating than ever. It even seems to change faster all the time, with new ideas and means of expression,- stretching the borders and embracing the entire creative spectrum.

Art Quilts are my passion today, and my development has taken me from traditional quilts to pictorial quilts, miniatures and abstract - the three branches on my creative tree. I have no formal art or textile training, but I sure have been to a great school of experience. I have also started teaching, which is remarkably rewarding.

I have been very fortunate; Many of my quilts have been award winners at Local, National and International exhibits, and have been published in premier quilt magazines. The best part is that Bård shares my love of quilting. He is a constant influence on my work, and enjoys participating in the process.

I enjoy being with family and friends, and when I am not quilting, I spend time gardening, traveling, cooking and listening to music, all of which I share with my husband. When he isn't working with me on a quilt, he is a keen sailor, and enjoys
reading and working on his computers, as well as scuba diving with son David.

A few examples of Kay's work

Abstract Quilts