Logic and Sewing Make Local Artist

What do quilting and computer systems analysis have in common?

The junction of these two skills came together for Deerfield artist Wayne Rhodes and comprise the display this month on the art wall at the .

When you put sewing and logic together you come up with quilting,” Rhodes said. He has made more than 100 over the last 17 years and a good representation is now on display. His passion for manual creation started when he was young.

“I always did something with my hands,” Rhodes said. “I made model planes when I was a boy. When my children were young I made their Halloween costumes but that was only once a year and they got bigger.”

Not long after, Rhodes began making quilts. Some he makes for the sheer enjoyment of creating something and others are made on commission for a customer. He also teaches the subject at the Patty Turner Center.

Though his children have grown, Rhodes still does things for children. Baby quilts have become a specialty. “I like seeing families get really excited,” he said. “I enjoy that.”

After retiring as a systems analyst, Rhodes became of an instructor of more than art. He teaches English as a second language at Oakton Community College. It is an advanced class where the students have some knowledge of the language.

“There are 15 people in the class and they are from 10 different countries,” Rhodes said. He helps them with the finesse.

Most of Rhodes’ creations not crafted specifically for a paying customer have a name though that can be more of a challenge. One time his mother-in-law, Pauline Baron, lent a hand when he was making a quilt for her.

“When I finished one for my mother-in-law she said, ‘it makes me so happy,’” Rhodes said. The name stuck.