Fabric as a Narrative: Constructing a Global Quilting Tradition

OVERVIEW – The tradition of quilting is engaging people of all ages, genders and classes around the globe CULTURE – Quilting empowers women and provides them an outlet for expression MUSEUMS – Museum exhibitions and academics have shown quilting in a different light THE WHITNEY – The exhibition that changed it all IQSC – A strong quilting tradition prompts a couple to let their 900-quilt collection establish a museum AQSG – High standards in quilt-related studies DOCUMENTATION – Preserving and cataloging quilts make sure information is not lost for future generations ART QUILTS – As the perception of quilting changes, the craft is increasingly accepted in the world of art AFRICA – The popularity of quilting, though not a native craft, rises with indigenous people ASIA – A continent with a deep textiles history celebrates culture through fabric JAPAN – Ancient sewing techniques once used to create beautiful kimonos now guide modern-day Japanese quilters EUROPE – Centuries of tradition led contemporary quilters to push for revival WHOLE CLOTH – Tradition in style and detail AUSTRALIA – After a fascinating beginning, Australian quilting continues to use techniques inspired by its surroundings AMERICAS – Immigrants started to shape the American quilt before they finished shaping the country HAWAII – Bold, bright patterns are reflected through the distinct appliqué style of Hawaiian quilts AFRICAN AMERICAN – Pieces made with purpose convey meaning through strong patterns and bold colors BUSINESS – Love of the craft guides business owners to provide quilters with tools OUTREACH – Quilting as a form of outreach goes beyond state boundaries and spans generations and continents as people worldwide use quilts to connect with others AIDS QUILT – Piece-by-piece, a quilt is formed by victims’ families and friends to create a fabric legacy YOUNG QUILTERS – Established quilters strive to garner interest from a younger generation A non-optimized version of the PDF file (210 MB) is attached below as an Additional file