“Ms. Jean” Custom Quilted Piano

In April 2023, I was selected by the Alpharetta Arts Center to design and paint a baby grand piano! The piano was donated by the family of Jean Williams, a lover of the arts, and the piano was refurbished by Play Me Again Pianos. This beautiful work of art is named “Ms. Jean” and will be displayed on the terrace of the Alpharetta Arts Center for public use for about 5 years.

Here is a note about my inspiration:

I am a long-time resident of Alpharetta, attending Webb Bridge Middle School and Milton High School, then returning to raise my family in Milton after higher education. I am so proud of the way our community has developed over time. My design for the piano is based on a traditional quilt pattern known as Lafayette Orange, made modern with eye-catching colors and whimsical composition. It represents the blend of tradition and freshness that characterizes Alpharetta and complements the architecture of the Alpharetta Arts Center. The concept of the quilt is very meaningful to me; a quilt is a humble, practical work of art created out of love (often by an anonymous woman maker), and I cannot think of a better translation of this intention than "quilting" a playable piano in my beloved community.