I originally published this blog post on October 21, 2016. I wanted to republish the post – as Nancy Basserman has recently passed away. I only came to know Nancy several months before she passed….she was a lovely lady, very kind and very sweet and a wonderful quilter. May she rest in peace.
Earlier this week, I took to Baker Park to photograph some of Nancy Basserman’s lovely, scrappy quilts. When I arrived, the sun was shining and the birds were singing. Not fifteen minutes later, the skies clouded over and it was threatening to snow. With or without sunshine, Nancy’s quilts sparkle especially in the beauty that is Baker Park. Across the Bow River from Bowness Park, it is a little known gem of nature, walking paths and greenery.
In the background, Canada Olympic Park and our ancient ski jump built for the 1988 Olympic Games.
Even though the cold had started to blow in, there were some people in the park, riding their bikes or walking their dogs but it was mainly deserted. Just right for me to snap my photos!
Nancy’s amazingly striking scrappy pineapple quilt drew me in right away. It is so pretty and so scrappy and so attractive.
Nancy has a penchant for making flying geese – and she does it very well. This beauty demonstrates both Nancy’s piecing and quilting skills.
Baker Park is home to a pair of bronze twin bears Leo and Mol. The statue stands near the center of the park; an interesting twist to the beauty of nature that surrounds it.
A sweet little Christmas quilt is one of Nancy’s favourites.
I call this quilt “In the Shadows” – probably not what Nancy calls it but I love it for the shadowy effects each block portrays.
Next time you’re out and about in Calgary looking for a wonderful place to walk or sit and think check out Baker Park. Nancy’s quilts will not be there but you will love the nature that surrounds you.
Kim