Striding Lines: The Unique Story Quilts of Rumi O'Brien

by Bobbie Malone

The gnarled branches of a beautiful old plum tree reach toward the sky. A mushroom hunter searches for morels among rolling hills. A small boat is tossed among the tumultuous waves of an angry sea. Striding Lines , an homage to Wisconsin artist and quilter Rumi O'Brien, presents these striking images of her work and many more, accompanied by descriptions that share the stories of each piece in the artist's own words. Each quilt represents a moment, often autobiographical, crafted with whimsy, revealing an inspired talent.
Bobbie Malone reaches beyond the quilts to tell O'Brien's own story, from her initial foray into the quilting world to her developed dedication to the craft. Contributions from leaders in the art, textile and quilting community, including Melanie Herzog and Marin Hanson, contextualize O'Brien's work in the greater community of quiltmakers and artists. This book celebrates the life and ingenuity of a Japanese-born American immigrant whose oeuvre is equally Japanese and Wisconsinite—and entirely distinctive.

112 pages, Paperback

Published October 15, 2019

Reviews

[Anya Toomre · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a delightful book sharing fascinating story quilts by Rumi O'Brien. I enjoyed the connection with Madison and Japan with her and how her memories of places helped shape the stories in her quilts. I recognize various spots she talks about.