Title: Kitty's Treasures
By: Margaret Couch Cogswell
Medium: Recycled Mixed Media- Spam Can, Wire, Bottle Cap, Tyvek, Spray Paint, Handmade Paper, Gouache, Graphite, Wood
Dimensions: 13" h x 31/2" w x 3" d
Price: $300

In my work I often use recycled and found materials. My mother, Kitty, was always a great recycler. In this piece I was committed to only using recycled materials in honor of her and my sister, Kate, who has organized this event.

Bio:

I have been making books for over 12 years.  Although over the course of my career I have journeyed from weaving to ceramics, fabric collage, and now books, certain themes and materials have stayed the same.  Cloth, thread, color and pattern have been constant connectors through the years.  My conviction that our greatest rewards often come from simple, everyday objects and moments is a recurring theme.  Additionally, communicating with people through the objects I make continues to be the primary and sustaining focus of my work. 

I was a slow reader as a child and had a hard time sitting still, but loved books as objects and as containers for pictures- the visual spark that took me on imaginary trips.  I also loved the idea that books contained knowledge, even if I could not access that knowledge through the book form.  I work in books because of this interactive quality they offer.  I want viewers to have a sensory experience through handling, wearing and playing with my books.

I received my BA from Rhodes College. Since that time I have continued my education at Rhode Island School of Design, Penland School of Crafts, Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts, Booksworks and until recently thru my full-time job as a mom. My work can be found at Penland Gallery and Bookworks.