"In Memory of Her..." Cougar Portrait Quilt

"In Memory of Her" Cougar Quilt

I first came to know the strong spirit of this inspiring cougar through a photograph. The picture was taken by wildlife rehabilitator, Peggy Faranda, who works at the PAWS Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. This cougar was brought to PAWS for care after being found weakened, dehydrated and one third of her normal body weight in the woods of southern King County Washington.

Upon seeing the photograph, I was compelled to immortalize her through a portrait. Even though outwardly, she appeared anxious in her temporary captivity, her eyes revealed her intrinsic strength and determination for survival.

Click the above image for larger view.

Unfortunately, her second chance at life was cut tragically short when a hunter found her in his rifle's sight just two weeks after her release. This quilt is a tribute to this amazing creature as well as to the commitment, passion and care the PAWS staff give to all the animals that pass through their doors. "In memory of Her..." was donated to the Progressive Animal Welfare Society's gala benefit auction to help raise much needed funds for their important work.

Because of the dedicated and highly trained staff at the PAWS Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, she made a full recovery after months of care and was released back into the wild to once again become an important part of the natural world.

"In Memory of Her..." was created with a variety of cotton fabrics, many of which had nature inspired prints such as river rocks and tree bark. The quilt measures 64" h x 48" w and is stitched to within 1/4 inch. Currently in private collection.

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