July Volunteer of the Month: Susan Worsley

Say hello to Susan Worsley in our Volunteer of the Month Spotlight

At Cultivate, we believe in celebrating the incredible individuals who dedicate their time, energy, and passion to enriching our community and advancing our mission. Volunteers are the backbone of our organization, bringing our programs to life and creating a vibrant, nurturing environment for all who walk through our doors. To honor their invaluable contributions, we are thrilled to share our "Volunteer of the Month" blog series.

Each month, we will spotlight one outstanding volunteer, sharing their stories, achievements, and the impact they've made on Cultivate and the broader Grand Rapids community. Through these stories, we hope to shine a light on the diverse talents and compassionate spirits that make Cultivate a place where art and community flourish together.

Please read their interview below -

Cultivate: What drew you to Cultivate and inspired you to become a volunteer?

Susan: My good friend Ann Cole recommended Cultivate to me! Being part of the art community is something I have always done. When I met Mallory there was an instant connection and I experienced the same feeling with the other staff and volunteers as well.

Cultivate: What’s one of your favorite memories from volunteering with Cultivate?

Susan: I am new at Cultivate so volunteering for me has just begun. I'm thrilled with the creative endeavors available, meeting the public and assisting the teacher for the day's class. The exhibits are so engaging, much like the whole group! And I just love people, getting to know them and talking about the beauty of art in our lives. It is all about communication and building community!

Cultivate: How do you practice or participate in art?

Susan: I am a quilter, transplanted here from NC. I teach, do speaking engagements, visit museums and open studios. I love to experiment with fabric and thread. My imagination takes me places in my art that excite me.

Cultivate: Are there any artists that have been inspiring you lately?

Susan: The artists in Australia and the UK inspire me through Instagram. I am drawn to color and freeform arts and crafts. Miniature work fascinates me. And of course texture!!! I have a huge attention to detail so the intricacies in creative expression bring me into the personality of the maker.

Please see and support Susan's art practice and work on instagram - @susanworsleyquilts