Episode 102 - Threads of Valor: Lexie Millikan's Journey in Art, Quilting, and Leadership at the Quilts of Valor Foundation

Our guest today is Lexie Millikan, Executive Director of the Quilts of Valor Foundation. Lexie is an artist, educator, and curator. She received her BFA, with a focus in fiber, installation, and social practice, at the Kansas City Art Institute in Kansas City, MO. Along with her work with the Quilts of Valor Foundation, she also has an active studio practice in which she teaches classes, exhibits her own artwork, and continues to learn more about art and craft.

Lexie has worked extensively with the UNESCO Creative Cities Network and through this has met makers throughout the world.

A non-profit she worked for, The Yeiser Art Center won the Governor’s Award in the Arts, for community programming and she was twice nominated for Young Leader of Western Kentucky.

Lexie makes her home in Marion Kentucky and when not working she enjoys riding motorcycles with her husband and hiking with their dogs.

(2:00) How did Lexie learn to sew and who was her influence? Well, first of all…she didn’t learn this craft until she was in college.

(2:37) Lexie shares her quilt making approach and talks about improvisational piecing. Learn also about her fabric choices.

(3:35) What’s her favorite quilt and how did she create it? Well…think doilies!

(4:25) Lexie has a degree from the Kansas City Art Institute. Walk with her through her education and how her learnings influence her work today.

(6:42) Lexie is a teacher. Hear about the courses she teaches, why she’s chosen these focuses and how you can find out more about joining her.

(8:17) Lexie has worked extensively with the UNESCO Creative Cities Network. Learn about this program and her work with them throughout the world.

(10:03) Through her work with UNESCO, Lexie has met makers throughout the world. Hear about some of these adventures in Mexico, South Korea and Spain.

(13:30) Quilts of Valor was founded in 2003. Lexie tells us the story of its genesis…it all started with an actual dream.

(14:38) How did Lexie become the Executive Director of Quilts of Valor…she shares this story. Then, she explains more about the organization and her leadership role.

(16:23) Why is the work of Quilts of Valor so important to the individuals that have been “comforted”? Lexie walks us through their mission and fulfillment.

(17:15) Want to learn how the Quilts of Valor program works? Learn more here.

(18:32) Hear a firsthand accounting of a few of the memorable moments when veterans receive their quilt.

(19:56) Because Lexie’s sister is in the military her work is very personal. Lexie shares their story, talks of her sister’s service and talks about the sacrifices that military families make on a daily basis.

(22:32) She helps us understand how to support military families. It begins with kind words of encouragement

(23:31) What’s next for Lexie?

(24:55) And…what’s her dream? Think a vibrant studio practice.

(25:34) What question didn’t I ask? Lexie shares the story of how her parents were such a strong influence early on.

(28:00) How can you reach Lexie? www.lexieabra.com and lexie.millikan@qovf.org.

I especially want to thank BERNINA for making this program possible.

If you know someone you think has an outstanding story – a story that should be shared on this podcast, please drop me a note to meg@sew&sewpodcast.com  or complete the form on our website.

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