Why Quilts ?
Quilting is an art, an expression of friendship, and form of memory making. Quite practically and obviously, quilts are also bedding.
The historical significance of the quilt in Early American History is impressive. It has imprints in the economy, in the textile industry, in the creative arts and even played a role in the emancipation process. A quilt is both utilitarian, needed for warmth, and an artistic display of talent. Quilts are a vehicle around which women (and some men) have gathered and expressed themselves. Quilting is both an individual and a group activity.
Communication, community and friendship are inherent in both the process of making the quilt and in the symbolism and fabrics chosen for a quilt. Quilting allows the quilt maker to artistically capture importance of a person and their friendship to the quilt maker.
A HeritageWomen throughout time have been known to place their political and religious beliefs on quilts. Quilts have celebrated a person's coming of age, their freedom from apprenticeship, a marriage, one's heritage, a birth, new life and they have commemorated lives well served.Today quilts are functional, artistic, aesthetic and sentimental. The range of styles, patterns, designs and color choices are kaleidoscopic. Quilts are considered an heirloom craft that can be handed down through generations. There are few things more comforting than wrapping yourself or your child in a quilt made with love. The time, effort and money invested in even the most basic quilt makes it an expression of love, caring and respect by quilt maker for both the recipient and their future generations. |
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