FANTASTIC FIBERS is an international juried exhibition that seeks to showcase a wide range of outstanding works related to the fiber medium. One of the Yeiser Art Center’s most engaging, innovative & colorful international exhibits, Fantastic Fibers is an inspirational must see for fine artists, quilters, and textile art enthusiasts across the globe. 2021’s Fantastic Fibers exhibition featured work from 5 different countries, 20+ states, and over 70 different artists!

Melissa’s piece, Cascade, a large mixed fiber tableau, earned first place in the juried competition.

Take a look at the work and the story behind it below.

Cascade - Mixed Fiber - Melissa Maddoni Haims (2021)

“During the Pandemic, my family and I created a fund to help local restaurants and that became a main focus for me. However the quarantine also afforded me a needed opportunity to catch up and experiment. I started this project, Cascade, about 2 years ago (actually maybe 3), but I was only able to work on it here and there. With the extra time afforded by all the cancelled Art Fairs and quarantines, I was finally able to finish it.”

“It’s 7’ x 3’ and heavy AF” - Melissa Maddonni Haims