Quilt Art: International Expressions

“Who knew the art of quilting could be such delicious fun?”

– Steve Siegel, The Morning Call

“As the north winds blow, wrap those you love in the warmth of colorful quilts, and don’t forget to see ‘Quilt Art: International Expressions.'”

– Phillyburbs.com

“[A] true dazzler. The show’s 40 pieces by 24 contemporary quilt artists from nine countries provide a thoughtful, penetrating review of some of the best quiltmaking today.”

– Victoria Donohoe, The Inquirer

Quilt Art: International Expressions celebrated the revolutionary accomplishments and visions of 21 contemporary artists from eight countries (Belgium, Britain, Denmark, Germany, Holland, Hungary, Ireland, and the United States). For the first time, North American audiences were shown dozens of stunning fabric works that demonstrated once and for all the power of quilting as a demanding art form that deserves global recognition.

While adhering to the traditional elements of the craft (three layers, including a top; a middle layer, or batting; and a backing), each artist of Quilt Art brought a distinctive approach to their work—whether based on observation or on a desire to express personal or social issues—and the results were diverse, dynamic, and challenging. The artists explored a range of abstract, depictive, and thought-provoking ideas with an ever-changing variety of surface techniques, masterfully integrated with color, texture, and stitch. Some used photographic transfers or digitally programmed embroidery to decorate their materials; others used stencils, prints, applique, plastic, acrylic paints, or rust stains made with old nails. Some quilts were abstract arrangements of form and color; others, kaleidoscopic patchworks of windblown skies, leaves, or landscapes, sometimes incorporating thematic (or symbolic) objects such as clothing, vases, weaponry, even food.

The artisans of the Quilt Art Movement, though practicing an ancient craft and separated by nationality, background, and (sometimes) by generation, observe the same three precepts: to remain distinctive in their art; to keep their work fresh and relevant; and to bring it to a wider audience. In Quilt Art, IA&A showcased the spellbinding fruits of their painstaking artistry in a one-of-a-kind exhibition.

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