Thirty-five fiber artists from the Southern California/Nevada region of Studio Art Quilt Associates (SAQA) are showcasing their work in the exhibition “Beyond the Canvas” at the Poway Center for the Performing Arts. The exhibition features a diverse range of styles, including abstract designs, landscapes, and representational pieces, all created using fabric and thread rather than traditional paint or clay. Featured artists such as Kathleen McCabe, Mary Tabar, and Kathy Piper demonstrate the versatility of the medium through works that range from hand-dyed cotton abstracts to nature-inspired imagery.
The exhibition serves as a platform to advocate for the recognition of quilts as a legitimate fine art medium rather than a domestic craft. By highlighting the professional backgrounds of the participants—many of whom transitioned from traditional painting or sculpture to textiles—the show emphasizes the technical skill and creative vision required in contemporary fiber art. This local showcase reflects a broader international movement by SAQA to elevate textile arts within the global fine art community.