Barn Owl by Christie Lower (needle felt) $1,400

Christie Lower is a fiber artist with a focus on birds. Her journey into the world of needle felting began nearly five years ago, when she was seeking a creative outlet to balance the demands of motherhood and find a sense of calm. What started as a simple hobby during her son’s activities evolved into a deep passion for needle felting and textile sculptures.

Inspired by the animals and nature surrounding her home in Eastern Oregon, she sculpts lifelike birds and wildlife using wool, a needle, and sometimes a base or metal structure. Her work pays homage to her beloved Grandma, who had a special kinship with birds. After her passing, Christie used her leather gloves to protect her hands while felting a serendipitous gift that made her feel connected to Grandma. Her focus on birds and wildlife is a tribute to her Grandmother.

What sets Christie’s work apart is her dedication to creating full-scale sculptures, blending techniques and materials to blur the lines between sculpture and textile art.