Artist and teacher Eden Quispe, who makes work about the Midwest and motherhood, has artwork on view in two New York locations. A pair of her “most fashion-focused artworks” are on view in “Threaded Visions: Fashion in Art,” through May 18 at the Brooklyn Waterfront Artists Coalition. Quispe also has work in “Threads of Identity,” through May 17 at watch purveyor Lux-O Collection in Manhattan’s Soho neighborhood. 

Quispe often incorporates vintage and heirloom textiles into her stitched and painted pieces. "I even use stuff that my grandma made and stick it into my work to have that sentimental and nostalgic connection," she said in a recent interview.

"I really enjoy being here (in Kansas), because I go to any garage sale and there's stuff that someone's made," Quispe said. "I love to be able to highlight this kind of women’s work. It’s beautiful and it has a lot of cultural significance. Just because it was made at home doesn't make it any less important."

Quispe, who holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in art education from Wichita State and a Master of Fine Arts from Fort Hays State, took some time off from her job as an art teacher at Newton High School to attend gallery receptions in New York. Working in the middle of the country has its advantages, she said — she’s  equidistant from major art cities (Miami-based Camp Gallery represents her), and she feels connected to the tradition of fiber work in the Midwest.  

Learn more about Quispe on her Instagram and website. 

— Emily Christensen is the managing editor of the SHOUT.

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