In this talk Patricia Kelly will share how quilting led her to fulfill her childhood dream of becoming a fashion designer and history teacher.
About Patricia
At the age of 12, Patricia learned to sew and enjoyed designing her own clothes. After graduating from high school, she planned to follow her childhood dream; however, she was advised to pursue another career.
Twenty years ago, Patricia was invited to join a quilting class. Learning to quilt opened a whole new world of creativity for her. In 2014 she joined the San Diego People of Color Quilt Guild. Guild Mentors guided her as she honed her quilting skills and encouraged her to learn more about contemporary and traditional African and African American textile arts.
Patricia has participated in local and national quilt exhibits. This year, she will participate in her first international show. One of her art quilts is on permanent display at the County of San Diego's Southeast Live Center office. Her work has been included in Art Quilting Studio Magazine and in the book Lift the Sky In May 2025, she won third place in the Quilt Africa International Challenge honoring the late Carole Lyles Shaw.