My creative expression has evolved mostly with the medium of fiber but you will see some metal pieces at the public works page. The manipulation of wool yarn and raw fiber were predominant for many decades. They exhibited themselves in the form of wall hangings and large tapestries, both private and public.

I enjoyed both the weaving of fibers as well as the building up of fibers to achieve subtle gradation of tones, called felting. The last few years I have developed a technique for stitching together intricate shapes of exciting colored commerical textiles to make framed works. It has been a stimulating challenge.

Through the medium of fiber I am not trying to duplictate nature but to respond to it in a personal way. The textures and the moods of our landscape provide my motivation and inspiration.

Jean Bass —2009

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Jean Ison Bass died peacefully March 15, 2011 in Topeka, Ks.

Gloria “Jean” was born May 6, 1942 to Lucille and Glenn Ison in Kansas City, Mo.  She  was a lifelong artist and educator.  A skilled jeweler and painter, she was most noted for her public tapestries, included in many local collections, including: Mulvane Art Museum, Topeka Public Library, First United Methodist Church, First Congregational Church, First Presbyterian Church of McPherson, Ks. and Leavenworth Mutual Savings.

Jean taught art at Topeka High School for 38 years where she enjoyed helping students discover and develop their own artistic abilities.  In 1965 Jean married sculptor Jim Bass. Together they crafted a rural home and artists’ studio where they intertwined art with family life, raising two children. 

She had great love for and pride in her family.  Jean is survived by her husband Jim of 45 years. Her daughter Jaminda Holmes, a clothing designer, and husband Jimmy, live in Kansas City with their two children Micah and Quilla.  Son Joren Bass, an architect, and his wife Beth reside in Portland, Oregon.  She also leaves behind her dear sister Glenda Bower and husband Bruce of Topeka as well as her nephew Brian Gay and his family of Prairie Village, Ks.

A memorial service was held at on Saturday, March 26, 2011, at First Congregational Church, 17th & Collins, Topeka, where Jean had many friends. Memorial contributions may be made to First Congregational Church or to a charity of your choice.

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