RITA CHESTER
FIBER ARTIST

A Journey Through Fibers: My Artistic Evolution

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 My journey as an artist is deeply intertwined with my family's legacy. Growing up, I was surrounded by creativity: my mother's ceramic artistry, my grandmother's vibrant paintings, and my grandfather's skilled woodworking. This constant exposure to different mediums nurtured my artistic spirit and instilled in me the importance of expression. Being a fifth generation quilter, the threads of creativity ran deep, weaving artistic heritage into my very being.

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 I began my artistic journey as a successful watercolor and fiber artist, Yet, fate had a different path in store for me. 

One serendipitous moment on the internet, I stumbled upon an artist crafting stunning bowls using felt. Intrigued, I dove into the world of felting, acquiring the necessary tools and materials. My first wet felted creation marked a pivotal turning point; a new artistic language that spoke to my soul.

 Living in Hawaii and now Arizona has shaped my art. Nature's beauty and the cultural richness of my surroundings serve as endless sources of inspiration. Each day, I find myself exploring innovative techniques, refining my vision, and deepening my connection to the art of felting.

 I am profoundly grateful for the generosity of fellow fiber artists who have shared their wisdom and for the opportunity to carry on this artistic legacy within my family. Felting, in its tactile nature, has become more than just a medium; it's a reflection of my evolution as an artist, a testament to the boundless possibilities of creative expression.