QUILTS AND COLOR

Last May I attended the HOW Design Live Conference in Boston. Since I had a late afternoon flight on my final day there, I decided to go to the MFA (Museum of Fine Arts Boston) to see the “Quilts and Color” exhibit from the Pilgrim/Roy Quilt Collection.

The “Quilts and Color” exhibition featured close to 60 quilts with vibrant color palettes and attention-grabbing patterns. These works of art were made by women during the 19th and early 20th century, in different areas across America, but mostly from Amish and Mennonite communities in Pennsylvania. They were collected by artists Paul Pilgrim and Gerald Roy over a period of five decades.

The collection showcased both traditional designs and creations from artists who worked outside of standard quilt patterns. It was a visual treat to see the exploration of color theory in the designs of the quilts. I was amazed with the bold, saturated colors used and the innovative effects created within established quilt patterns. I’ve always liked quilts, but this exhibit gave me a new perspective and appreciation for these beautiful and intricate handcrafted pieces of art.