Student Success Story: Lori Cook

Meet Lori Cook. A retired nurse, devoted mum, and fibre artist who, for years, quietly held onto the dream of creating more than just quilts. Like many creatives, Lori felt the tension between life’s responsibilities and the persistent pull to make art. 

“Even as a nurse and mother, I relied on creative problem-solving. And now, I’m starting to identify as an artist—a concept that once felt out of reach but now feels freeing and affirming.”

A lifelong passion meets Sensing Place

Lori had always found joy in working with fabric and thread, but she struggled to connect the dots between passion and artistic expression. Despite years of quilting, self-teaching, and attending in-person workshops, something was still missing.

“I knew there was an art quilt in me… but I struggled to find direction and technique.”

Then came Sensing Place, and with it, a complete creative shift.

“Take Two helped me understand process, technique, and materials in a new way. I learned how to give myself the freedom to create what I want to express.”

Debbie’s teaching style gave Lori more than techniques – it gave her permission.

“Her course gave me permission to make work that only I understand. I realised I needed the freedom to explore what’s inside me – something I didn’t know how to access before.”

From hesitant to empowered

Before the course, Lori had never tried painting, drawing, or collage. Like many students, she doubted her skills because she didn’t come from a formal art background. But the structure, pace, and encouragement in Sensing Place helped her unlock something extraordinary.

“Now, I feel confident and empowered… it’s profoundly changed the way I see the world and how I create from it.”

She began using natural materials, listening deeply to her environment, and working in three dimensions for the first time.

“I created textured 3D pieces using beeswax, organza, dyed jute, and lava medium… I dyed my own fibres for the first time and felt immense joy in doing so.”

Learning to “hold a place” and be seen

Lori now hears Debbie’s voice in her mind, gently reminding her to “open [her] eyes and ears.” One of the most transformative tools she gained was how to use a sketchbook to explore emotions, surroundings, and ideas.

“Nature has become a collaborator in my work.”

And when she submitted her artwork to the Take Two Sensing Place student exhibition?

“When I saw my art in the exhibition book, it was an incredible moment of affirmation.”

A shift in artistic identity

Before the course, Lori’s art was mostly representational.  After Sensing Place, she embraced texture, abstraction, and symbolism. Her new piece, Desert Yaka Oasis, is a sculptural reflection of hope and beauty found in life’s driest moments.

“It reflects the idea that even in the driest times, we can find beauty and hope.”

A message to anyone on the fence

Lori’s advice to those considering Sensing Place?

“Do it. The courses are beautifully filmed, thoughtfully structured… you are truly part of something special.”

And if you’re feeling unsure, Lori understands.

“Before this course, I lacked confidence… Take Two helped me reawaken creatively and emotionally. They helped me find myself again.”

Art that lights you up

Lori’s story is just one example of the meaningful change that can happen when you give yourself permission to create and the right support to grow.

If you’re ready to explore your personal creativity, build confidence, and learn from one of the world’s most thoughtful fibre artists, Sensing Place with Debbie Lyddon is calling.