Hollis Chatelain's Story

Art Inspired By Experience

Hollis Chatelain is an internationally recognized and award-winning artist specialized in textile painting. Through her work that addresses challenging social and environmental themes, Hollis reflects 12 years of experience living in West Africa and working with humanitarian organizations.

Using a distinctive style characterized by a dream-like use of color and imagery, her dye-painted scenes of multi-cultural life convey the untold stories of women, children, families, and the earth, and have been described as "easy to gaze at, but hard to forget." 

With an educational background in design and photography, and over 35 years experience as a professional artist, Hollis' work can be found in public and private collections throughout the world. In addition to creating her art, Hollis  holds lectures and workshops in the United States and abroad, instructing students in subjects including color, drawing, design, dye-painting, and quilting technique. 

ARTIST'S Statement

My art most often comes to me in my dreams; usually influenced by current events and the many years I spent living in West Africa. This is why I tend to create surreal dreamlike compositions with a photographic quality.

I create "textile paintings" because fabric not only gives me a way to do all the things I love - photography, drawing, painting - but it is also very tactile. The softness of the medium draws viewers in and encourages them to engage on a deeper level.

Just as my many colors of thread hold the layers of fabric and batting together, I feel that my creations can also pull people together. We are wrapped in cloth from birth through death. Thus fabric creates a connection that suits the issues I address in a personal way.

I believe that each one of us plays an essential role in making this world what it is. I hope my work will touch and inspire viewers.