Dainty, Elegant and More

Editor's Note: "Getting to Know You" is on display at Quilt House through February 6. To celebrate this show's run, International Quilt Study Center & Museum team members are sharing their impressions on select pieces from the exhibition. 

Red and Green Medallion, maker unknown, probably made
in United States, circa 1850-1870. Byron and Sara
Rhodes Dillow Collection IQSCM 2008.040.0118.

By Joy Shalla Glenn
Membership and Public Programs Assistant

Now why would I pick this quilt to write about??? It certainly is not me! It is dainty, elegant, delicate, refined, and petite. And I unfortunately, possess none of those qualities.

I am usually drawn to stronger, bolder, more geometric quilts. However, there is something about the graceful design that is comforting to the eye. I want to see the applique work up close. Can you even imagine doing all those leaves? And what about those tiny circles?

This was before the day of heat and bond. Yes, I know needle turn looks better, but, honestly, life is too short. So, I also wonder about this quilter. What was her life like?  How did she accomplish that monumental amount of work? I definitely need to see this close up.

Purple Love

Editor's Note: To celebrate the grand opening of the newly expanded Quilt House gallery, International Quilt Study Center & Museum team members are blogging about pieces in the gallery's inaugural exhibition, "Getting to Know You."

Center Diamond, made by Melinda King,
United States, circa 1910-1930. Ardis and Robert
James Collection IQSCM 1997.007.0063.

By Joy Shalla Glenna
Membership and Public Programs Assistant

Red + Blue = Purple! Purple is my favorite color. I love this quilt. I look at it and see purple. It draws me – the straight lines, the simplicity, how austere and clean it is. It is comforting and yet hard.

I wonder about its maker. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to have a chat with her? What was her life like? What was her family like? I doubt it was simple. This makes me want to know more!