Barbara Friedson

Artist Statement

Growing up in Brenham, Texas, nature played a central role in daily life. From picking blackberries and raising sheep and calves to sneaking off to visit the ducks at Mr. Bird's house, each day offered new adventures. There were fishing trips, a tumble from a horse while riding up an embankment, and hours spent sewing doll clothes and crafting puppets. Today, time is devoted to several art forms- art quilts, fabric sculptures, and mixed-media pieces-all inspired by early memories, but most of all, by the 100-year-old pecan tree. When beginning a new piece of art, emotion and joy emerge from the core idea. Once the concept takes shape, planning and execution follow. There's always a welcome challenge in experimenting with new materials and techniques. Writing the words on the paper leaves to honor the Texas pecan tree at 408 West Tom Green brought back a flood of memories. That tree stood with quiet strength and resilience. It bore the damage of squirrels, offered a haven beneath its expansive branches, and sheltered the animals that came to rest and graze. Most of all, it gifted us with pecans-seasonal treasures that our family gathered and sold to buy special treats. That soul lives on in my heart: the spirit of the grand Texas pecan tree, which no longer stands at 408 West Tom Green.