In this episode of the Sew & So Podcast, we meet William Daniels, an award-winning textile and quilt artist whose work blends fine art, philosophy, and social reflection. From altering jeans at age 12 to pursuing a PhD in Art Theory and Aesthetics, William shares how his creative journey evolved, what inspires his distinctive style, and why camaraderie within the quilting community means so much to him. He discusses the “voice of the quilt,” the role of astronomy in his art, and how he weaves meaning and humanity into every stitch.
Our guest today is William Daniels, an award-winning textile and quilt artist whose work bridges fine art and social commentary. Born in New Orleans and now based in New York, William blends a deep academic background with a hands-on creative spirit. With degrees from the State University of New York and New York University—and nearing completion of his PhD in Art Theory, Philosophy, and Aesthetics—his art reflects both intellect and intuition. Known for his rich use of texture, symbolism, and storytelling, William’s quilts are as thought-provoking as they are visually stunning. Yet, for all his accolades and exhibits, his favorite part of the artistic journey is the camaraderie—the people(6:58) Will talks about the “voice of the quilt”. What does this mean?
(9:08) What are some of his most memorable creations?
(11:33) Meg reads a quote from William about how he creates. He explains what it means to hold a mirror to society.
(13:50) Will’s work has been described as Bohemian, eclectic and experiential. He addresses this description and even takes a little umbridge with one of these descriptors.
(15:05) Will takes us through his creative process
(16:39) How long do his projects take to create? Well…it depends!
(18:00) Will talks about his interest in astronomy and how it affects his work.
(19:57) In addition to his many hobbies – Will is PhD ABD. He talks about his thesis.
(21:25) Camaraderie is deeply important to Will. He talks about those he’s met on his journey and how they’ve helped and influenced him. He tells of these people and particularly an experience at a New York Quilt Guild while in college.
(27:03) What is Will working on now?
(28:50) How does Will make some two-dimensional more human?
(29:52) What does he do in his spare time?
(30:58) What’s next and what’s his dream?
(32:28) Is there a question we didn’t ask? Well…what’s been the most difficult aspect of quilting. Will talks about gender issues in quilting as a male who quilts…for example feminine quilting vernacular.
To reach out to William, you can find him at williamdanielsartist.com, or on Instagram @williamdanielsartist.