Sojka's quilts on display at Library

A new exhibit of miniature quilts created by Decorah artist Nancy Sojka is now on display at the Decorah Public Library Mezzanine Gallery.  The exhibit is sponsored by the Driftless Art Collective (D. Art Co).

The quilted pieces on display are inspired by painters, weavers, and other quilters. Sojka explains, "I like to start with a standard pattern and change it, or start with a visual concept and make it in fabric and then add quilt stitches and beads to enrich the design. I have recently started machine quilting- a new endeavor."

Sojka credits her interest in quilting to her mentors, Grandma Nellie (a weaver) and Grandma Ruth (a quilter), who taught her to weave, crochet, knit, quilt, and sew and encouraged her along the way. Sojka went on to earn a BA in Art Education from University of Northern Iowa and mentor students of her own while teaching art at North Winneshiek School for 31 years.

Sojka continues her art, along with web design for several organizations, and as Board President of the Oneota Film Festival.

The Decorah Public Library Mezzanine Gallery is currently open to the public Mondays through Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.  Call the library at 382-3717 with any questions.