Today we’d like to introduce you to Amy Hemphill Dove.
Hi Amy Hemphill, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am a “dyed in the wool” fiber artist!
I was born in West Chester, PA, into a family of artists, musicians, creators, and collectors. Earning a BSc from Philadelphia College of Textiles and Science led to several years designing Jacquard fabrics, ranging from abstract to traditional. From this ‘Weavart” emerged, a reweaving of these commercial and industrial designs into uniquely artful woven collages.
Endlessly experimental, on relocating to Florida in 2010 or so, I became fascinated with wet felt-making and the various textures and blends possible within the process. Now, combining different materials – mostly hand-dyed – to create layers of new textural expressions, all while embracing the visceral nature of the fibers.
Creating with fibers and textiles is more than just a passion to me – it’s a form of storytelling. I’ve been creating since I was young, driven by curiosity and a deep appreciation for color, texture, and emotion. Whether I’m painting and designing silks, felt making, or botanical printing, my work reflects the world as I experience it—raw, alive, and layered with meaning. My mission as an artist is to create work that resonates on an emotional level—pieces that make people pause, remember, and connect.
For me, creativity flows mostly from the magnificent beauty of nature: The variety of colors and textures in flowers, trees, and creatures are boundless inspiration. The power of the sea, the rustling of the forest, the singing of birds, and the gloriousness of sunrises and sunsets all lay an indelible imprint on my work; they’re all reflected in the textures, color palettes, and compositions of my pieces.
I’m one of the longest-term members and a principal of the Butterfield Garage Art Gallery in St. Augustine. Similarly I’ve been a long-time member of the St. Augustine Art Association and won many awards there – including ‘Best In Show’ — with feltworks, most recently 3rd place in the Association’s 2024 Honors Show for ‘Summertime Trellis’. Additionally, I often present pieces and collections in art shows and exhibitions elsewhere along the East Coast.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Of course not, I had trouble learning as a child in the traditional classroom.
Tactile experiences as a younger person, especially hands on making and creating helped me to express myself as a creative artist.
What matters most to you? Why?
“Imagine all the people living life in peace.” – John Lennon
Respect and love yourself and others.
Stand up for the rights and dignity of other people and beings.
Seek love over control and dominance.
Give people the benefit of the doubt.
Live by your core values.
Meditate and live in the moment.
Practice non-violence.
Seek forgiveness and forgive other people.
Reflect on your actions to improve them.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.amydove.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amyhemphilldove.fiberart/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/textuality
