Jane Ardoin – about me
Hello! I’m Jane Ardoin, and quilting is not just my profession, it’s a cherished tradition, an art form, and a technological adventure all woven into one. Born and raised in the picturesque town of Narragansett, Rhode Island, I was fortunate to grow up in an environment where the old met the new, where the waves of the Atlantic whispered tales of tradition, and the future beckoned with the promise of innovation.
My journey into the world of quilting began under the watchful eyes of my grandmother. Her skilled hands and patient guidance were my first foray into this intricate and beautiful art form. It was from her that I learned not just the techniques, but also the soulful artistry that goes into every stitch of a quilt.
Eager to explore the depths of textile art, I attended the Rhode Island School of Design, a place that shaped my perspective on textiles and design. Here, I delved into the history, the cultural significance, and the endless possibilities of textile art. My education here was not just about learning the craft; it was about understanding its place in the world and in our lives.
After three years of working as a professional quilter, a new curiosity took hold of me. The world was changing rapidly, and technology was becoming an integral part of every art form. I decided to embrace this change and enrolled at MIT to study computer automation. This decision opened a new chapter in my quilting journey, allowing me to blend the traditional art of quilting with the precision and possibilities of modern technology.
Now, based in Washington D.C., I am not just practicing my art; I am sharing it. Teaching quilting allows me to pass on the legacy of my grandmother and the knowledge I have gained over the years. But more than that, it’s a platform for me to explore and share the exciting intersection of traditional quilting and modern technology.
This website is a window into my world. Here, you’ll find insights into my research, my teaching methodologies, and the projects that keep me busy. Whether you’re a seasoned quilter, a student of textile arts, or someone fascinated by the fusion of tradition and technology, there’s something here for you.
Join me in this journey of stitches and circuits, of patterns and programming, as we explore the ever-evolving landscape of quilting in the modern world.
Welcome to my world of quilting – where tradition meets technology.