Quilt National

Poor, neglected sock at least got a trip to the Dairy Barn!

After several missed opportunities earlier in the summer, I did finally make it to Quilt National (at the Dairy Barn in Athens, Ohio) on my way to Baltimore.  The granddaddy of all contemproary quilt shows, this biennial juried exhibit was started in 1979 and draws entrants from all over the world.  This year's jury considered over 1,200 quilts for the available 80 spots.  Which, at each show, prompts the inevitable question, "So how'd this get in?"  But that's only because the final selections are so varied in style, there are always some you hate as well as those you find completely entrancing.  And of course, each viewer's opinions are as varied as the quilts themselves.  Which makes Quilt National so much fun to attend!

Some notes before I weigh in on this year's exhibiton.  Unfortunately, no photos are allowed to be taken in the galleries.  But that rule was lifted at the show's opening, so you can see an exhibitor's photos here to get a flavor of the actual show.  Also, although a catalog is never a substitute for seeing quilts *in the flesh*, this year's catalog is quite nice and I would highly recommend it if you aren't able to get to see the show before it closes.  Next week.  In the (relative) middle of nowhere.  (Go get the book!)

My impressions.  Of the 14 Quilt National exhibits, I've probably attended 10 or 11.  I don't think this was the strongest.  The show is usually a mix of established, professional quilt artists, first timers and everything in between.  I always look for several artists' works...Jane Sassaman and Jane Burch Cochran, among my favorites...and they were there, but I felt that none of the established artists' new pieces were as interesting as their earlier work.  Sort of *shorthand*.  (Possible exception, Sue Benner.)  Among my favorite pieces in this QN, many were the work of first time exhibitors...how refreshing!  Here are a couple that I found posted on the web... Angela Moll's Secret Diary #15: What Are You Doing? and Marilyn Easter Fasbaugh's Another Beautiful Day in Paradise.   All in all, I was glad I got to see the show and will definitely try to make it to the next one in 2007.  You should, too!

 
And what's this?

It's my new design wall, strapped onto the roof of the car, after a slightly harrowing drive home from Home Depot yesterday.  After way too much consideration (should I get Celotex, a surface I liked in my previous sewing room but might be too heavy for my drywall walls?  Or try the Styrofoam sheets that so many quilters are recommending...lighter weight but maybe not as good a pinning surface?  Which wall?  The wide but short one (sloping ceiling) or the opposite wall...full height at the expense of width?)  Enough!! I purchased one 4'x8' pink Stryofoam board, will cover it in flannel, lean it against a wall and use it.  Progress!

Comments

[Kay]

Thanks so much for the insider's guide! Very educational. xoxo Kay

[Kristin]

I've been contemplating a design wall since I just got my new built in desk. I'd love to hear how you like yours. I only have room for something above my sewing desk which would be about 3' by 6' However, I've also been thinking about using the extra from a full sheet of whatever I use to make a place for the kids to hang their artwork. Any ideas about the best material for that?

Also, I loved the Jan Mullen designs you did. You really have a way with colors.

Kristin

[Cordelia]

Can I just say "Yay for you!"? I *never* can make a decision, so I'm always vicariously thrilled when someone else does.

[kellymo]

Oh no! Wish I would have known about that quilt show. Those pictures were extraordinary. And it would have taken no time at all to drive from Cincinnati...

[Tonya R]

I haven't seen any of the QN shows, but I've got all the books. Have to say this was my least favorite of all of them, to the point of thinking I won't get the next book sight unseen. I didn't LOVE any of the work, and like you I love Jane B.C.'s work as well as Susan Shie's. I know they look better in person than in photos, but still... You're still lucky to have gotten to see them.