Money Bag #5, an original mixed media artwork

This work of art is made from a canvas money bag, wooden sticks, printed dollar bills, fabric with printed money and thread. Cut, quilted and stitched by hand and by machine, it is part of a series that was exhibited as a collection until individual pieces began to sell. It is mounted on felt and framed in a shadow box with conservation glass.

The story behind the creation of the original seven "Money Bags":

This project began by gathering moneybags from the local bank where I once worked. The bags are used throughout our Federal Reserve Banking System to transport money. Due to normal wear and tear, they were on their way to destruction when I rescued them. They are made of strong canvas, which I knew could be recycled in my artwork.

There are times when I incorporate quilting techniques in my art, using fabrics as paint, and thread as line. I came across some fabric depicting coins and currency and decided to use it in some way with the moneybags. At one point, while handling these materials, I rested my hand on the canvas and was transfixed by the outline of my hand and fingers on the moneybag. I traced the shape on the bag and thus began the direction for this presentation.

As I worked on each bag, my feelings about our universal dependence on money were transferred directly onto the very canvas that brings it to us.

*This series was exhibited as a collection in various locations (2 banks, a library, a museum, and a quilt show) until several were purchased. The digital images of them were used to print blank cards and fine art digital reproductions.