The Peony
Gail Wagner Myrhorodsky
Grand Rapids, MI
12"h x 12"w

 

Artist statement: My parents, Marion and Bruce Wagner, are both retired - only from their previous jobs (mom in banking, dad a high school teacher). Even though they both have their own health issues, they have volunteered in our community as a driver for the Red Cross and to help
patients at the hospital.

In addition to that, they have helped raise almost all of their numerous grandchildren at one time or another, and now are helping with their great-grandchildren (a set of toddler twins and another toddler as well). Not only do they baby-sit when asked, through the years they have added so many fun and educational activities that the kids would probably never had had the chance to experience if it weren't for their grandparents.

And when not participating in all of that, they still find time to share with others from their church and those of their friends who have lost spouses and are now living alone, for many outings and travels around Michigan and other parts of the country.

I'm sure there are many others who also help our world as much, but I think my parents deserve this recognition for all they do and have done. They are quiet and unassuming people, but they spend much of their retirement helping others.

This quilt is made with real peony petals captured beneath sparkle tulle. Hand-dyed and painted cottons by artist.