About the artist

Artist Statement

Biography

Resume

Publications

Book

Gayle Pritchard's fiber pieces include small, intimate collages; three dimensional assemblages; and small to gigantic wall quilts. Because her work is conceived to be experienced and enjoyed on a personal level, she creates an immediate connection with the viewer through the familiarity of the materials used. Once the viewer is engaged, the sensuousness of her surface techniques invites a closer look at the deeper issues explored in the work. Questions are asked and answers sought to issues brought forth through life experiences. In the process of attempting to channel these experiences into a creative outlet, her work transcends the personal and speaks to the broader context of the human condition, particularly the quest for spiritual meaning. Pritchard is fluent in three languages and has traveled extensively. An expanded worldview acquired through her travels finds expression in the diverse symbols and cultures that influence her work.

Selected regional exhibitions include The Stocker Center's Images of the Soul, Ohio Designer Craftsman's Best of '94, special mention; The Cleveland Museum of Art's 1993 May Show and The Canton Art Institute's All Ohio '90. A Christmas ornament commissioned by the White House in 1993 is part of the Smithsonian collection. Gayle was honored in 1990 as one of Cleveland's Most Interesting People. She has been dubbed The Betsy Ross of Rock and Roll for her piece commemorating the influence of rock music, which she created for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum in Cleveland. Her most recent public commission was created in honor of the new Peter B. Lewis building in Cleveland, Ohio, designed by Frank Gehry. In addition to several television interviews, her writing and artwork have been published in numerous national magazines and in Japan. Her work has appeared in Ricky Clark's Quilts of the Ohio Western Reserve, Carol Owen's Crafting Personal Shrines, Encyclopedia of Living Artists '97 and The Art Quilt by historian Robert Shaw. Pritchard lectures and teaches seminars nationally, leading in part to her recognition by The Professional Quilter as a Teacher of the Year in 1991.

Gayle A. Pritchard resides in Bay Village, Ohio.