Emily Van Hoff Sculpts Facets of Color in Vibrant, Dimensional Quilts

For Emily Van Hoff (previously), the possibilities of quilts extend far beyond two dimensions. From geometric tapestries to faceted weavings and sculptural constructions, the artist traverses a wide array of textile forms.

“I love giving my quilts more visual weight,” Van Hoff tells Colossal. “I like when they feel more chunky and object-like… So I’ve been exploring a variety of ways to accomplish that.”

Van Hoff often revisits original sketches and offcuts of earlier pieces, puzzling together new works with a variety of textures, hues, and configurations. One striking recent experiment takes the shape of three chain links, which can be displayed in various orientations by sliding the components around, revealing unique angles and color combinations.

“Some of my wall hangings have also used pieces that sort of overlap and weave through each other,” Van Hoff says, “and the chain link is the continuation of that idea as well.”

The artist recently announced a line of quilting fabric she designed for Moda Fabrics titled Groove, which will be available in stores starting in May next year. The collection expands on her vibrant palette and playful, squiggly motifs.

“My background is in graphic design,” Van Hoff says. “I’ve always loved textile design, and I worked in a fabric shop in high school, so this is a real dream-come-true moment!”

Explore more on the artist’s website, where she adds pieces to her shop from time to time, and follow updates on Instagram.

a square quilt square with a bright orange and pink circle in the middle, with colorful, geometric borders
a sculptural textile piece resembling three chain links with different colored facets, perched on a wooden base with wheels
a quilted wall hanging in orange and yellow, suspended from a wooden bar with curving geometry
a quilted wall-hanging resembling a loosely tied knot, with different facets of bright color
an array of small, colorful, quilted swatches adhered to paper
three soft, quilted, colorful shapes stacked next to each other on a wooden table top with some books
a display rack with a series of six quilted wall hangings with geometric color facets
a series of colorful, geometric fabric designs hanging in strips
‘Groove’ series of designs for Moda Fabrics