This body of work started by gathering moneybags from the local bank where I work. The bags are used throughout our Federal Reserve Banking System to transport money. Due to normal wear and tear, they were on their way to destruction when I rescued them. They are made of strong canvas, which I knew could be recycled in my artwork.

Recently I have been incorporating quilting techniques in my art, using fabrics as paint, and thread as line. I came across some fabric depicting coins and currency and decided to use it in some way with the moneybags. At one point, while handling these materials, I rested my hand on the canvas and was transfixed by the outline of my hand and fingers on the moneybag. I traced the shape on the bag and thus began the direction for this presentation.

As I worked on each bag, my feelings about our universal dependence on money were transferred directly onto the very canvas that brings it to us.

This exhibit is available as a temporary or permanent installation. The entire “Money Bags” exhibit features seven (7) quilted moneybags mounted on a green felt-covered foam core background. Each background measures 30” L x 20” W. The full exhibit is priced at $2,100.

Photographic prints of the original bags are available for purchase.

The prints feature:

Click here to view Sample Print

More than 1 image can be combined on 1 print if desired. All prints and photo mounting are done by the LaBelle portrait studio, Whitewater, Wisconsin.