At first glance, quilting might seem like your grandma’s favorite pastime. Old-school notions aside, the art of quilting isn’t just about keeping warm, and has since evolved into a fine art medium for self-expression. Every square and every stitch weaves together a story about community, tradition, and unbridled creativity.
From quilts that explore themes of identity and diversity to those that highlight environmental concerns, the art form has become a vehicle for artists to engage with and comment on the complexities of the modern world. Digital tools and software of the 21st century have propelled quilting into new heights—allowing quilters to bring their visions to life with greater precision and efficiency.
Beyond the cozy confines of blankets and bedspreads, quilting has evolved into an intricate expression of creativity, with the Studio Art Quilt Associates (SAQA) here in Connecticut leading the charge in championing the art quilt. “Design and purpose of the quilts is the biggest factor that sets art quilts from traditional quilts,” says Gina Grubb Frank, Connecticut Regional Representative of the SAQA. “The final work shares a story through the eyes of the artist and is seen as artwork.”
Frank offers her expert insight into the art form—crediting “artistic freedom” to its evolution and rise in popularity. “I was a traditional quilter up until about 15 years ago when I was invited to join Sisters in Cloth (an area quilting group) and then members of Sister encouraged me to join SAQA,” says Frank. “These two groups forever changed my thinking of quilting and gave me freedom to express myself through my work.” Offering a unique perspective on the changing dynamics of quilts, Frank further elaborates on the versatility of art quilts. “I personally believe that art quilts have flourished because the piece can be displayed in your home or office,” says Frank. “A traditional quilt usually went on a bed, in the closet or took up wall space to be displayed.”
Established as a nonprofit organization, SAQA has grown into a global hub, uniting over 4,000 artists, curators, collectors, and art professionals. Through a series of initiatives, SAQA seeks to elevate the art quilt’s status by organizing exhibitions that showcase the diversity and brilliance of art quilts. SAQA’s commitment to excellence is evident in the curation of these exhibitions, which not only celebrate established artists, but also embrace new talent.
SAQA’s upcoming touring exhibition, titled, Local Color 6: Flora & Fauna, features a vibrant collection of thirty-two fiber art pieces crafted by twenty-six accomplished artists. The showcased artworks range from realistic to abstract representations—capturing both real and imagined plants and animals through a variety of innovative methods. By bridging tradition with contemporary art, SAQA aims to acknowledge and celebrate the art quilt as a dynamic and evolving form of expression.
SAQA’s, “Juried Artist Program,” provides a structured path for members to enter the art world, with Margaret Phillips, a SAQA member, exemplifying its success as a Juried Artist Member. Her latest work being displayed at the exhibit, #194-2 Two Flowers, demonstrates the seamless integration of her lifelong passion for sewing and drawing. Crafted from cotton fabrics and batting, with meticulous machine piecing and quilting using both cotton and polyester threads, the quilt represents a harmonious blend of mediums. “I have been sewing and drawing my entire life so using my drawings to inform my quilting and visa versa comes naturally to me,” says Phillips.
Norma Schlager, another featured artist, finds inspiration in her Escargot Begonia’s captivating spiral leaves and vibrant hues. Her masterpiece, Curvaceous, skillfully captures a single leaf’s essence through detailed photography and creative Photoshop elements. Printed on white fabric by Spoonflower for a larger scale, the quilt undergoes meticulous free motion machine quilting adding texture and depth. Schlager, a seasoned quilter, embraces a new creative avenue by seamlessly integrating floral photos into her work, harmonizing with her distinct hand-dyed materials. “I am happiest when creating something artistic,” says Schlager, who’s found joy in designing her own unique art quilts.
In addition to exhibitions, SAQA provides valuable resources and a platform for artists to excel. Through workshops where members can “show and tell” their quilts and receive constructive feedback, visits to other exhibits and speaking engagements throughout the region, SAQA empowers its members to hone their skills, experiment with new techniques and stay up-to-date on the latest trends in the ever-evolving world of quilting.
As the threads of creativity continue to weave through the fabric of the quilting community, SAQA stands as a testament to the enduring legacy and limitless possibilities of the art quilt. Whether you’re a seasoned quilting enthusiast or just starting your journey with a needle and thread, the vibrant world of art quilts invites everyone to explore, create and be part of this rich tapestry of artistic expression. Happy quilting!
Local Color 6: Floral & Fauna, opens on February 6th at the Guilford Art Center and will travel to various galleries throughout Connecticut in 2024. For more information, please visit www.saqa.com or email saqalocalcolor@gmail.com
