lkeeneart.com
American, Lives and Works in Charlotte, North Carolina

Linda Keene is a self-taught fiber artist based in Charlotte, North Carolina. She has been married 48 years, is the mother of one son and the grandmother of two amazing little boys. She enjoys travel, reading, genealogy, entertaining and spending quality time with family and friends.

Artist Statement

My artwork reflects images of African-American life and culture using colorful textiles as a medium. Each one-of-a-kind fabric collage is created using a combination of hand and machine quilting, as well as embellishments that enhance the overall image. My goal as an artist is to reflect the values of family, friendship and community that have shaped my world view.

Although I loved to draw and paint as a child, I did not grow up in an environment where that type of creativity was nurtured. So I chose to focus my energies on academic pursuits where I got lots of support and positive reinforcement. This path led me to get a Harvard M.B.A. and a successful career as a corporate marketing executive for over 25 years. My “Second Act” was as a non-profit CEO, where I spent 8 years leading one of the largest Girl Scout Councils in the United States before retiring in October 2015.

During my working years, I found many outlets for my creativity — like sewing, interior design, cake decorating, photography, quilting and scrapbooking — but never pursued them as more than hobbies. It is only in recent years that I have begun exploring my early passion for art in a more serious way.

Since I have always loved working with fabrics, it was easy to decide that was the medium I wanted to create in. It was a lot harder to figure out how to translate the designs in my head into fabric images. With practice, I began to find my artistic voice and produce work that I want to share with others. I have finally arrived at a place where I am ready for my “Third Act” as an artist.

I hope to create work that people will want to have in their homes because of the positive feelings that it generates. The characters in my images are always smiling, and I would like to see those smiles reflected when people experience my work.

I am excited about the possibilities that are starting to come my way as a result of sharing my artwork and I invite you to join me on this journey!