NWT Arts

Leana Ferguson was born in London, Ontario.  Her unique childhood allowed her to be creative and follow her interests in art and adventuring.  She spent a lot of time doing crafts with her mother and had 11 years in competitive Irish dance. Leana is also familiar with music and played saxophone throughout her childhood.  She began painting in acrylics, wood burning, and crocheting as an adult.  Since becoming a mother and living in the NWT she felt a need to create something practical and cozy for the long cold winters, so she began quilting.  

Her extensive experience canoeing has drawn her to the north. Canoeing and spending time outdoors has always been a passion for Leana, and since living in Norman Wells often feels like being on a life long canoe journey, it was a perfect fit. Leana chose quilting after her babies were born because painting just wasn’t working anymore.  It seemed wasteful to watch paint dry up every time a baby's cry took her attention away from her canvas.  She needed a hobby where she could put it down and come back to it many times without ruining anything.  She was drawn to quilting because she loves making practical things, that can be interacted with.  She also found an outlet for her perfectionism and delights in creating the perfect lines and corners that make a quality quilt.  

Leana creates quilts of many styles, often tailoring them to the people she is making them for.  She chooses colours and patterns based on the personalities of the people that will receive them.  Her fabrics are carefully chosen based on the pattern she is using.  She quilts both traditional and foundation paper piecing styles.  Her style is anything from modern to traditional.  The sky's the limit when it comes to quilting and Leana puts her adventurous spirit to work by trying it all. She is inspired by her time spent outside and strives to capture the beauty around her and share it with family and friends.  No matter what technique she has used, her quilts beg to be handled and have the power to transport you to the world of the midnight sun, the rocky shores of northern water, and good friends.