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The opening reception for Natalya Aikens’ “CITY LINES” art quilts will be on Friday, May 9, at Etui Fiber Arts Gallery from 6:30 to 8:30 PM.
Inspired by New York City architecture, the series of quilts that make up CITY LINES depicts small alleyways, huge avenues, cracked pavement, glass skyscrapers, brick storefronts, vibrant graffiti, grand bridges and rusting fire escapes. 
The works are made from 90% recycled materials; however, the recyclables used in Aikens’ quilts have been transformed into sophisticated and beautiful images.
Aikens notes that her art is deeply rooted in her Russian heritage and the architectural imagery both of New York City and St. Petersburg. She couples this imagery with photo manipulation and delicate stitching together of recycled materials such as paper, plastics, and vintage fabrics.
Being an amateur photographer is in her blood, says Aikens: “Working on photographs in Photoshop enables me to transform the amateur photograph into a desirable element of my artwork.”
One of her most important drawing tools is the sewing machine, and her hands. She explains: “…. hand stitching is my favorite way of expressing myself and adding visual texture to almost all my art,”Etui Gallery 2106 Boston Post Rd., Larchmont www.etuifiberarts.com, 914-341-1426.
author
Joyce H. Newman is an Emmy Award-winning environmental journalist, educator, and gardener. She holds a Certificate in Horticulture from The New York Botanical Garden, and is a tour guide there.
