“Galapagos: Evolution”
Galápagos: Evolution is a textile exploration of a landscape shaped by fire, sea, and time. This exhibit captures the spirit of the Galápagos Islands—a place where adaptation is constant, survival is creativity, and beauty lies in the unexpected. The exhibit reflects the unique ecosystems and endemic wildlife that define this remarkable archipelago: from the vibrant shell of the Sally Light-Footed Crab to crested ocean waves to a rare purple mushroom. These moments come together in fabric to tell a story of transformation.
This is also a story of personal evolution. As the islands reveal nature’s adaptations, this body of work traces my own creative journey—from traditional piecing and hand appliqué to the expressive freedom of raw-edge collage and layered embellishments. The quilts mirror not only the evolution of life on the islands, but also my growth as an artist—where technique becomes voice, and fabric becomes a living narrative.
Leanne is a designer, photographer and educator behind Sumac Studios. She been designing and creating quilts since the mid-90s and working with photography even longer. Today, her focus is on expanding her #QuiltYourAdventure collection, featuring work that includes Ireland, Antarctica, and the Galapagos, with upcoming additions of Southern Africa, and Jordan.
