I have been a fiber artist for most of my life. My work has been rich in texture with exciting color, has strong eye appeal and often a message of environmental stewardship. When I discovered natural dyes I read everything I could find about the cultures, history, geography and politics that surround textiles and natural dyes. I also discovered that I could locally forage for dye materials in the prairies, ditches, woodlands, by the streams and in some of my friend’s gardens. I was seeing Natures Gentle Colors in a whole new way. I would ask my mentor for recipes and processes. He finally told me to use my eyes and head. That has served me well. I can now collaborate with the materials having mastered techniques. However, I still have green stains on my knees.
Previous Work
Jewelry
I strived to make one-of-a-kind jewelry with strong eye appeal that speaks to the individual wearer.
Textiles
My textiles included scarves, art to wear, home decor and art cloth. Many are done with Shibori resist.
Book Art
My unique handcrafted books are made with Coptic or Ethiopian bindings and wooden covers.
KSMQ OFF 90 interview with Judy and her husband, Tom—Cloth and Clay
Judith Saye-Willis is a fiscal year 2021 recipient of a Creative Support for Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.
