SELBIE, JANE M.

Geography has been a strong influence. While growing up, Jane enjoyed equally hiking the mountains and creek beds of British Columbia and the meadows and lakes of Southern Ontario.

She began a fascination with fabric at age 13. In 1972 she began selling fabric collages in Thornhill. A love of colour, texture and combinations led her into the demands of quilting and designing fabric projects through local shops and an artisans co-op.

Trained in Social Services and having raised two sons, she managed an employment centre for twelve years. During that time she continued to make fabric pictures and contemporary quilts. The discovery of clay led to hand built sculpture. She has received many commissions from clients in Ontario and internationally. She has provided trophies to local curling bonspiels for sixteen consecutive years.

Her delightful brightly coloured fabric creations capture the essence of the rugged landscape of Canada. The use of colour and simplicity of line echo the influence of the Group of Seven. Always experimenting with the potential of the fabric medium she delights in the discoveries that unfold by redefining small pieces in a new way.

The various sizes of her fabrications provide souvenir vignettes that travelers and local shoppers will want to collect. Commissioned works of particular scenes and homes are often arranged.