Denise Witt - Newfound Sanctuary - Eye Center Concourse Display

A passion for felting took root during a pivotal time in Denise Witt’s life. “Following a life-altering accident, Duke Hospital became my sanctuary, where dedicated physicians, nurses, and aides saved my life during an extended hospitalization. The realization that I could no longer provide care to my patients as a nurse reshaped my trajectory. It was during this period of recovery that I stumbled upon my hidden acquired savant talent – wet felting.” - Denise Witt

Her introduction to felting happened unexpectedly in 2018 when she received a wool felt holiday ornament. Along with it came a sample piece of wool "roving" dyed in a stunning blue hue. Intrigued by this unfamiliar material, she embarked on a journey of research, leading her to discover the captivating world of felting.

Through her creative vision, Denise Witt transforms wool fibers into vibrant fabric creations. Drawing inspiration from the natural world, Denise weaves organic shapes, textures, and colors into her felted pieces. Her journey into wet felting represents a harmonious blend of innovation and tradition. Each of her creations reflects a unique story and her dedication to mastering this centuries-old technique while infusing it with her contemporary flair. In essence, Denise invites viewers to join her journey celebrating the magic of transforming humble wool into art. With each piece, she unveils the beauty and versatility of felting, showcasing the profound connection between tradition and contemporary expression.