Rhode Island native Veronica Mays is a former high school English teacher who left the profession in 2019 to pursue her passion for quilting. She is in a zone of peace and joy when sewing stating, "Most often, I'd rather be quilting." Mays is partial to using African-inspired fabric to create pieces that reflect her culture. Art quilts and portrait quilts using applique' are her favorite designs. She also creates one of a kind coats and jackets. Her background is in Writing (Journalism, poetry, fiction), and Drama. In June 2024, she published her first book of poetry, "Heart Wide Open" is a collection of quilt-related and Ghana-inspired poems based on herart quilt creations and her awe-inspiring trip to Accra, the capitol of Ghana. Mays' inspiration comes from her everyday art life as well as her love of people and places.