At a glance
The exhibition coincides with Women’s History Month, as quilt making was one of the most significant forms of artistic expression historically available to women. The library will hold a special reception with refreshments Wednesday, March 12, from 4-6 p.m.
The Jean B. Lang Western New York Historical Collection during the month of March. The display will feature a dozen locally made quilts spanning the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. The exhibition coincides with Women’s History Month, as quilt making was one of the most significant forms of artistic expression historically available to women. The library will hold a special reception with refreshments Wednesday, March 12, from 4-6 p.m.
Several quilts are of local historic interest such as “Nuclear Blues,” created in conjunction with the Bump the Dump campaign, the A.E. Crandall Hook & Ladder Co. quilt and two the Bicentennial quilts made by Alfred residents in 1976. These works embody the community spirit and ingenuity associated with collaborative quilt making.
The exhibition presents examples of traditional quilt block designs as well as modern techniques and tools. Of note are, the “Potter Quilt” dated 1826, “Blazing Star” dated 1846, and two “crazy quilts” featuring elaborate hand embroidery that illustrate the considerable time and energy used to create quilts.
Quilt making continues to be debated as an art versus a craft, a vehicle for artistic or political expression, or dismissed as domestic work. Either way, quilt making is a key aspect of American Women’s History.
The quilts will be on display throughout the month of March.
For more information on the Bicentennial Quilts visit: library@alfredstate.edu, or call 607-587-4313.