[ About the Artist ] I decided early that fiber best suited my creative expression. I chose the fiber program at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls for my formal training. I studied there under the direction of Walter Nottingham and completed my degree. My fiber work is boldly graphic with a fearless use of color. Nature and its mysterious and wonderful way of expressing itself in light, color, and form is the primary inspiration for the works. I recently expanded my creative expression to include figurative sculpture and Medicine Dolls. There is a creative dialog that takes place when working with the human form that is truly magical. My creative inner circle is very content with such a wide range of expression. I embrace this and feel equally comfortable designing a wallhanging that is a study in color and form, a whimsical figure, or a deeply personal and spiritual medicine doll. I create from my heart and hope to spread love, peace and joy to the world through my art. ~ Patty Carmody Smith

[ Exhibitions ]

Minnesota State Fair, St. Paul, MN; juried fine arts show (2007, 2004, 1995)
Buffalo Fish Fine Art, Willmar, MN; featured artist (2007)
St. John's University, Collegeville, MN; Approachable Fibers - invitational fiber exhibit (2005)
The Good Life, Wayzata, MN; Women - a fine arts show (2004)
Fiber Metal Arts; juried fine contemporary craft show and sale (2004, 2001-1997, 1995)
Arts in Harmony, Elk River, MN; juried fine arts show (2004, 2002)
Frank Stone Gallery, Minneapolis, MN; two-person show (2002)
Textile Center of MN; member show, Phipps Center for the Arts, Hudson, WI (2001)
Frank Stone Gallery, Minneapolis, MN; two-person show (2000)
American Crafts Council; juried fine contemporary craft show and sale, St. Paul, MN (2000)
Minnesota Crafts Council; juried member show, Phipps Center for the Arts, Hudson, WI (1999)
Colonial Church, Edina, MN; invitational fiber show (1998, 1996)
Minnesota Crafts Council; juried member show, Minnetonka Center for the Arts (1997)


[ Affiliations ]

American Crafts Council
Textile Center of Minnesota


[ Education ]

Bachelor's degree in Art from the University of Wisconsin River Falls


[ Workshops ]

Gloria Crouse - Contemporary Rug Hooking
Walter Nottingham - "Ritual Objects and Mystical Symbols"
Barb Kobe - "Art Dolls" and "The Dollmaker's Circle"
Maureen Carlson - Sculpting Faces
Laura Murray - "Lucious Layers" Surface Design
Mentorship Program - Ann Hall Richards