Patchwork from Folk Art to Fine Art
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| (Detail) Crib or child's quilt, 2004-05, Bibijan Ibrahimsahib, Kendaligri, India, Cotton. Collection of the Newark Museum. |
WHEN: September 14–December 31, 2011.
WHERE: Newark Museum, 49 Washington Street, Newark
973.596.6550
newarkmuseum.org
Since purchasing its first quilt in 1918, the Museum has amassed one of the most comprehensive quilt collections in the nation, both stylistically and historically, consisting of more than 150 pieces today. Patchwork from Folk Art to Fine Art tracks the evolution of quilts—from functional masterpieces of women’s folk art to self-conscious artworks intended for display rather than practical purposes. Many have never been on public view before.
The exhibition features more than two dozen quilts, some created with powerful graphic designs pieced together from geometric patches of silk, wool or cotton, while other are more complex works of narrative folk art, filled with appliqué motifs and embroidered enrichment.
Album quilts, commemorative quilts and crazy quilts—all of these were ways in which women in centuries past built community and were able to express their artistic skills within the confines of gender roles. Contemporary studio quilters have also embraced the historic traditions of their craft, while creating a kind of quilt that has only existed since the late twentieth century.
Patchwork from Folk Art to Fine Art is a must see for those who appreciate textiles, both for their artistic beauty and their exquisite craftsmanship.
Accompanying this exhibition is The Global Art of Patchwork: Africa and Asia, showcasing work of patchwork traditions outside the world of quilts, also drawn from the Museum’s holdings.
For Adult Visitors
- The Great Newark Quilt Turning
Tuesday, September 27, 2011, 10:30 AM–4 PM
Pre-registration required. Purchase tickets online or call 973.596.6613. - Explore the Art of Quilts: A Three-Part Series
Saturdays, October 15, November 19 and December 3
1-3:30 PM
Pre-registration required, call 973.596.6613, or purchase tickets online
Gallery Tours
Wednesdays through Sundays (resume September 17)
- 1:15 PM Treasures of the Newark Museum
- 2:15 PM Selected Quilt Masterpieces in the exhibition Patchwork from Folk Art to Fine Art
Senior Fridays
1–4 PM, Second Fridays
FREE! Pre-registration required; call 973.596.6613. Groups welcome.
September 16
Art: Explore the Creative Power of Color, Pattern and Design
