Meet Jean Impey | Textile Artist/Quilter

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jean Impey and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jean, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
I embrace risk as an essential part of my creative process. For me, risk-taking in art isn’t about recklessness—it’s about pushing boundaries, trusting intuition, and allowing creativity to flow without fear of failure. Every quilt I design and every piece of art I create is a risk. Can I make what I see in my mind? Will the fabric, color, and texture come together the way I envision? The reality is that not everything turns out as planned, but that’s part of the journey.
One of the biggest risks I take is letting go of perfection. Traditional quilting often follows strict rules, but I challenge those conventions with techniques like Reckless and Raw Edge Appliqué and Fabulous Face Portraits, where spontaneity and imperfection are embraced. These methods require me—and my students—to trust the process rather than control every detail, which can be both liberating and intimidating. But in the end, the results are more authentic and fuller life.
Another way I take risks is by continuously evolving. Whether it’s developing new workshops, experimenting with unconventional materials, or saying “yes” to opportunities outside my comfort zone, I thrive on creative challenges. Some of my most rewarding experiences—like teaching at major quilting retreats, exhibiting my work in public art spaces, or even stepping into the digital world of Instagram—have come from taking leaps into the unknown.
I want to inspire others to embrace their own creative journeys—to take risks, break rules, and find joy in the process. Risk is the bridge between what’s comfortable and what’s possible. Every time I start something new; I remind myself that if it feels a little scary, it probably means I’m growing as an artist.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is a reflection of my passion for creativity, storytelling, and pushing the boundaries of traditional quilting. While quilting is often associated with precise patterns and rigid techniques, I embrace a more spontaneous, expressive approach—one that celebrates imperfection, intuition, and individuality. My signature methods, such as Reckless and Raw Edge Appliqué and Fabulous Face Portraits, challenge conventional quilting rules, inviting artists to take risks, let go of perfection, and trust the creative process.
One of the things I’m most passionate about is my Fabulous Faces work. This technique, which I first developed and later taught alongside my dear friend Freddy Moran, has allowed me to merge fabric, storytelling, and emotion in a unique way. My Etsy shop, www.etsy.com/shop/FreddyAndJean , features these quilted portraits, each individually named and accompanied by a short story that brings it to life. The stories add another layer of connection, transforming each piece into something more than fabric and thread—it becomes a character, a moment, or a feeling.
Teaching The Magic of Fabulous Faces has been especially rewarding. This workshop has empowered artists to create and share their own stories through fabric. Some pieces reflect personal experiences, others capture a personality or memory, but all of them help students express themselves in new and meaningful ways. It’s an incredibly fulfilling experience to see students find their artistic voice and bring their own stories to life through fabric.
Beyond Fabulous Faces, I am deeply proud of the reach of my work. From my public art pieces displayed in hospitals like CHOC, Kaiser Permanente, and Camp Pendleton’s Naval Hospital, to the quilted portraits that tour nationwide, I love knowing that my art connects with people in deeply personal ways. My students tell me that my workshops have changed the way they approach not just quilting, but life. That is the greatest reward of all.
But getting here wasn’t easy. Professionally, I’ve built my career from the ground up, traveling across the country to teach and lecture at quilt guilds, festivals, and retreats. At first, public speaking terrified me, but with the encouragement of my dear friend Margie Bushaw, I practiced until I found my confidence. I also had to navigate the challenge of turning my passion into a sustainable business—learning how to market my work, establish my brand, and now, take my online presence to a professional level.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that creativity thrives on risk. Every piece I create is a leap of faith. Designing quilts and artwork means trusting that the vision in my mind can come to life. Sometimes, things don’t turn out as planned—but I’ve learned that every “mistake” is an opportunity. The key is knowing which pieces to embrace and which to let go. The same applies to life and business.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1: Arrival & Coastal Charm (Dana Point & Laguna Beach)
• Afternoon: I’ll be buzzing with excitement to pick her up from the airport! We’ll head straight to Dana Point Harbor, where we can stroll along the marina, catch up, and hopefully spot some dolphins or whales—fingers crossed!
• Late Afternoon: We’ll grab a casual, fresh seafood dinner at Chart House, overlooking the harbor, and watch a stunning sunset together.
• Evening: A scenic drive up the coast to Laguna Beach is a must. We’ll wander along Main Beach, pop into the art galleries, and just soak in the lively atmosphere, catching up on everything.
Day 2: Beach Day & Corona del Mar Elegance
• Morning: Beach day! We’ll choose our favorite spot—Crystal Cove for some tide pool adventures, Little Corona del Mar for a more intimate feel, or a relaxed beach in Laguna. I’ll pack a picnic, or we can grab some delicious snacks from Zinc in town.
• Afternoon: A drive to Corona del Mar is next. We’ll explore the charming shops along PCH and walk down to the beach to see the Wedge, hoping the surf is up!
• Evening: Dinner at Bandera in Corona del Mar. We’ll order the BBQ Salmon; it’s a must-try! It will be a sophisticated but comfortable meal.
Day 3: Garden Delights & Irvine Indulgence
• Morning: We’ll immerse ourselves in the beauty of Rogers Gardens. Exploring the themed gardens and browsing the unique plants and home decor is always so peaceful.
• Lunch: Houston’s in Irvine is calling! We’ll order anything—because, honestly, everything is a TEN.
• Afternoon: Shopping and fun at Irvine Spectrum Center! The giant Ferris wheel and the lively atmosphere are always a blast.
• Evening: If there’s a show at the Irvine Barclay Theatre that catches our eye, we’ll definitely go.
Day 4: San Juan Capistrano History & Flavor
• Morning: We’ll explore the historic Mission San Juan Capistrano, learning about the Swallow’s return and the rich history of the area.
• Lunch: Sol Agave in San Juan Capistrano! We’ll absolutely devour those chips, salsa, and bean dip, and of course, those tamarind margaritas.
• Afternoon: We’ll wander through the charming shops and art galleries in downtown San Juan Capistrano.
• Evening: Live music and two-stepping at the Swallows Inn! We’ll embrace the authentic cowboy vibe, we’ll do a little 2-stepping and have a ton of fun.
Day 5: Luxury & Chocolate Indulgence (South Coast Plaza)
• Morning: Shopping spree at South Coast Plaza! We’ll explore the high-end boutiques and department stores.
• Lunch: The Capital Grille for a luxurious and memorable lunch.
• Afternoon: Indulging in the finest chocolates at Läderach. We’ll treat ourselves to their FrischSchoggi—it’s divine.
• Evening: We’ll choose a relaxing dinner at a restaurant in the South Coast Plaza area or head back to a favorite spot.
Day 6: Laguna Hills Local Gem & Relaxation
• Morning: A relaxing morning at Burke Williams spa. Time to unwind!
• Lunch: Panini Kabob Grill for their amazing Chicken Shish Kabobs.
• Afternoon: We’ll explore the local parks or hiking trails in the Laguna Hills area.
• Evening: Ironwood in Laguna Hills. We’ll enjoy the friendly atmosphere and delicious, hot food.
Day 7: Farewell & Coastal Drive
• Morning: A final breakfast together at Giana’s in Dana Point.
• Late Morning: A scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, stopping at viewpoints along the way, reminiscing.
• Afternoon: I’ll drop her off at the airport, already missing her and the amazing week we shared.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’ve been fortunate to have incredible people who have supported, encouraged, and inspired me throughout my journey.

First and foremost, my father was my biggest supporter. He always believed in me, and I can still hear him saying, “JeanLynn, you can do anything you want to.” Those words have stayed with me my entire life, shaping my confidence and fueling my drive. Because of him, I have never been afraid to take risks or push myself creatively. His belief in me became the foundation for everything I do.

Jillian Gabrielli, an art dealer, also played a pivotal role in my growth. She saw something in me before I fully saw it in myself. She encouraged me to stretch beyond my comfort zone when she needed a textile piece for UCI Medical Center. They were looking for a local artist to create something meaningful for their Meditation Room—something that reflected the surrounding landscape. I found a photo that inspired me and set out to translate it into fabric. That piece still hangs in the hospital today. Because of Jillian’s encouragement, I’ve since created public artworks for various healthcare facilities, including Kaiser Permanente Anaheim, CHOC Hospital’s Children’s Mental Health Wing, Camp Pendleton’s Naval Hospital, and CHOC’s Thompson Autism Center. Working with her opened doors I never imagined and pushed me in new artistic directions.

Then there’s Margie Bushaw, my dear friend and fellow quilter. We met in 2007 over our shared love of quilting and quickly became close. I always loved teaching and sharing my art, but public speaking wasn’t a skill I was comfortable with. Margie believed in me and practiced with me—again and again—until I found my confidence. Now, I speak in front of hundreds with ease. She continues to be one of my biggest supporters, often traveling with me and handling all the logistics so I can focus on my work. Her generosity and unwavering faith in me have been invaluable.

And finally, Freddy Moran (1930–2024), a legendary quilter who proved that creativity knows no age. She began quilting at 60 and became known for her bold use of color, famously saying, “Red is a neutral.” We started teaching together about eight years ago, and when her eyesight failed, I became her eyes. She continued to create and collage every day until she passed, and I still have many of her pieces waiting to be sewn and finished. Some of her works now travel alongside my quilted portraits to exhibitions across the country, ensuring her vibrant spirit lives on.

These four incredible people—my father, Jillian, Margie, and Freddy—have shaped my journey in ways I could never have imagined. Their belief in me, their guidance, and their friendship have been some of the greatest gifts of my career.

Website: https://sewjean.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sewjeanimpey/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SewJeanImpey/

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/JeanI

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/jimpey11

Other: www.etsy.com/shop/FreddyAndJean