"Log Cabin Humble Beginnings" is a watercolor painting created by Barbara Kohl-Spiro. From 1984 this comes from a series of paintings based on quilt designs. This example depicts the log cabin pattern. Influenced by Op Art of the 1960s, Kohl-Spiro's work fools the eye with pulsating diamond and square patterns made up of lines and dots of color that are not blended. The work distorts the viewer's perception of depth and form. The color palette is influenced by the Italian Memphis design style that was popular in the 1980s. While both Op Art and Memphis design have characteristic hard lines, Kohl-Spiro's painting emphasizes the handmade--much like a textile. Even the picture's frame is handmade. During the '80s, curators and critics were beginning to recognize the artistry and decorative nature of quilts. For Kohl-Spiro, the quilt represents a symbol of passing traditions from mother to daughter and the strength of familial relationships across generations. The artist signed this piece in the lower right margin with graphite. In addition, this painting is housed in a frame of the artist's design, painted with patterns of lavender, orange, maroon, teal, and purple. Good overall condition. Some minor abrasions to frame.

Image Size: 25 1/2" x 19 3/4"
Paper Size: 29 3/4" x 22"
Frame Size: 36 3/8" x 28 3/8"

Statement From Artist:

"For me, my life has been dedicated to family, tradition, and adding to the big pot of culture that I have the freedom to do. I celebrate families, daughters, granddaughters, and the creative spirit."

"Make the soul sing-this is my mission. Kafka said art should cleave the frozen sea inside a heart. I think that. When critics, curators, gallery owners, art historians, etc., are no longer around 100 years after a work is created, it is the lone work left to relate to future generations. In all times, certain basic things reach the human heart. The fundamental things survive as time goes by. I hope I can add a little something to that part of human culture. I am Jewish and my tradition teaches the importance of thinking of generations to come. I think of the legacy given to me by all the great artists of the past. To me many of these artists were women-often anonymous, often part of the decorative arts. I hope I can be a small part of the creative people's legacy. In this series, I often refer to Ellie Needleman's "Kicking Lady" because she has a spirit of celebration. I love the blessing of finding joy in the work I do every day. I specially treasure my glorious family and friends who always are making more rooms in my heart. I thank God for giving me a creative soul." -Barbara Kohl-Spiro