Balancing Quilting Art and Commerce

Being a working artist takes a lot of business acumen. Balancing the artistic and business aspects of her career is an ongoing challenge for Cindy. But with an MBA and a background in financial research, Cindy has a notable advantage over other artists in the business side of her art. Besides creating art, she dedicates time to updating her website and social media, writing blogs, creating e-newsletters, teaching, and running her business. It’s difficult, but the balance is crucial to continue growing as an artist while also sharing her knowledge and passion with others.

Differentiating Herself from Other Fiber Artists

Fiber art is becoming a crowded field, so Cindy differentiates her work from other artists through her exceptional use of color and free-motion quilting techniques. She believes every artist has their own unique, artistic “DNA“ and hers is the collision of color, improvisation, and creativity in fabric and thread. 

Teaching Quilting and Inspiring Others

Cindy encourages her students to discover their own unique artist DNA. She teaches quilting internationally and already has 14 teaching engagements booked in 2025. Quilt students love her classes because she dedicates herself to helping students find and express their own creative voices. Her mantra: “Silence your inner critic and allow your inner child to come out to play.” 
When asked what La Veta participants could expect in July 2025, she said, “I love this class. It is so exciting. It equips students with the tools to be endlessly inspired. We all have a favorite photo, painting, or art work that we love. I teach quilters how to take that inspiration and use it to create a quilt without a pattern. It requires a willingness to let go of the rules and define your own method. That’s what’s exciting about it. It’s teaching a different mindset that helps students design a personal set of rules that works for them.”
She noted she loves encouraging students to explore their own creativity, even when the individual’s vision differs from what she does. The focus is to facilitate the student to hear and trust their own creative vision. In that regard, she says, “the class is very freeing. And I make it fun.” 

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Swipe right to see Matisse's 1947 creation, Jazz. Swipe right to see Cindy Grisdela's quilt, Homage Matisse, inspired by Jazz.

The Future of Art Quilting

Art quilting has come a long way and is being recognized as fine art. Cindy is optimistic about the future. She has seen a growing acceptance of quilts as a legitimate art form, on par with painting and photography. She noted how organizations like the Studio Art Quilt Association (SAQA) have been crucial in promoting art quilting. Cindy thinks their ongoing efforts to showcase and celebrate this medium will strengthen its position in the art world.
Cindy Grisdela’s journey as a fiber artist is a testament to the power of creativity, perseverance, and passion. Her work continues to inspire and challenge the boundaries of what quilting can be. Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or a beginner, Cindy’s upcoming retreat at the Estelle Center for Creative Arts offers a unique opportunity to learn from one of the best in the field. Experience the joy of improvisational design, learn new techniques, and discover your own creative voice in a supportive and inspiring atmosphere. Don’t miss out on this chance to elevate your quilting skills and be part of the vibrant community of art quilters.

Click here for more information and to register.

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Swipe right to reveal a photo of a crab on Galapagos Island. Swipe left to reveal Cindy's quilt, Galapagos Red Crab.