Mary Fisher Fabric and Quilts

While visiting Quilter's Store Sedona, I noticed a beautiful fabric line Pathways by a local artist Mary Fisher.

I was drawn to the earthy shapes and colors, and learned that Mary's inspiration came from her travels and work in Africa.

Later that afternoon, Mr. Cactus and I entered the Goldenstien Gallery where I was delighted to see a collection of Mary's art quilts hanging along one wall.

Previously, I was not aware of Mary or her work, and desired to learn more.

A gallery employee approached and told me parts of Mary's story.

She is an artist, author, AIDS activist and International speaker.

At one time she was a television producer and assistant to the President of the United States.

In 1992 she delivered a very impactful speech "The Whisper of AIDS" at the Republican National Convention.

I could see a sadness in her work, and learned that Mary contacted AIDS through her ex-husband.

"What has influenced my art most is the living with AIDS while raising children as a suburban, white, American mother. The contradictions in my life are so clear, so absolute... but when it all begins to come together in a sculpture or a print or a quilt, it comes together as a single message. It's my truth, my story, my prayer."
~ Mary Fisher

"In the United States, Mary founded the Mary Fisher CARE (Clinical AIDS Research and Education) Fund to support long-term, outcomes-based research for the care of people living with HIV, especially women. In Africa, she established support groups where women infected or affected by HIV/AIDS can earn a living wage, producing hand-beaded bracelets that Mary designed and markets in the United States. "

Each quilt back contains a label of Mary's thoughts at the time she was creating the piece.

Quilting has always been therapeutic, and often provides a charitable influence.
Especially so in the works of Mary Fisher.

You can read more about Mary on her web site http://www.maryfisher.com/