RAGS to Present "Textile Paintings" by Cindy Grisdela: A Bold Exploration of Color, Line, and Texture

August 2-31, 2025

"Lake Regatta" by Cindy Grisdela

This August, art lovers are invited to experience "Textile Paintings," a dynamic solo exhibition by award-winning fiber artist Cindy Grisdela, on view at Reston Art Gallery and Studios (RAGS) from August 2 through August 31, 2025. A public reception will be held on Sunday, August 10 from 2–4 p.m., with light refreshments served.

In this vibrant body of work, Grisdela pushes the boundaries between quilting and fine art, creating abstract compositions entirely from fabric and thread. Her self-described "textile paintings" highlight color, line, and shape in ways reminiscent of traditional painting, but with the added dimension of intricate texture.

"My textile paintings are abstract designs that highlight color, line, and shape, much like traditional paintings,"Grisdela explains. "But I create them with fabric and thread instead of paint. As a fiber artist, I can add texture to my designs through quilting stitches."

"Beetle Juice" by Cindy Grisdela

Each piece in the exhibit is crafted freehand on a sewing machine—without computer programs or markings—resulting in one-of-a-kind works that are as tactile as they are visually striking. Some compositions are adorned with densely stitched motifs, while others feature looser, irregular lines, echoing the artist's intuitive response to each design.

The bold graphic quality of Grisdela's work draws viewers in, while the fine stitching invites closer inspection. This harmony of spontaneity and precision gives her work its signature energy and warmth.

Event Details:

· Exhibition: Textile Paintings by Cindy Grisdela

· Dates: August 2 – 31, 2025

· Reception: Sunday, August 10, 2–4 p.m. (light refreshments provided)

· Location: Reston. Art Gallery, 11400 Washington Plaza West, Reston, VA 20190

"Garden Party" by Cindy Grisdela