Kentucky Quilts and Quiltmakers: Three Centuries of Creativity, Community, and Commerce

Kentucky Quilts and Quiltmakers: Three Centuries of Creativity, Community, and Commerce is the first comprehensive study to approach quilts as objects of material culture, highlighting the role of quilt making in women's history, the influence of early Black quiltmakers, popular Kentucky quilt patterns, types, and colors, and the importance of preserving quilt history and traditions. The author provides a panoramic view of the Kentucky quilt world, revealing the pivotal role that Kentucky's quilts and quiltmakers have played in shaping significant aspects of the national quilt scene.

Format: Hardback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 07 November 2023
Publisher: The University Press of Kentucky

Quilts, far beyond mere fabrics or unconventional materials stitched or otherwise secured together to adorn beds and walls, hold a profound significance that transcends their utilitarian purpose. These magnificent and intricate works of art are not only rich in history and tradition, but they also serve as a gateway into the past, offering a glimpse into the lives of previous generations. At the same time, they also showcase the avant-garde mastery of contemporary, cutting-edge talent, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the world of quilting.

Kentucky Quilts and Quiltmakers: Three Centuries of Creativity, Community, and Commerce stands as the first comprehensive study to approach quilts as objects of material culture that have consistently emerged throughout the history of the commonwealth and the country. In this enlightening work, Linda Elisabeth LaPinta delves into various aspects of the Kentucky quilt world, shedding light on the role of quilt making in women's history, the influence of early Black quiltmakers and quilters, popular Kentucky quilt patterns, types, and colors, and the enduring importance of preserving quilt history and traditions among Kentuckians.

The author presents a panoramic view of the Kentucky quilt world, spanning from Colonial America to the present day, including the American Revolution, the Civil War, and the 1900s. LaPinta reveals the pivotal role that Kentucky's quilts and quiltmakers have played in shaping significant aspects of the national quilt scene. She highlights the state's pioneering efforts in quilt documentation, notable exhibits, major quilt organizations, and the establishment of the National Quilt Museum. This all-encompassing volume also includes a collection of significant and intimate recollections and artistic commentaries by renowned quiltmakers who created these works of art, as well as discussions of the curators, collectors, historians, entrepreneurs, and other key players who have contributed to the creation, conservation, celebration, and showcasing of the extraordinary quilt world culture of Kentucky.

Through her meticulous research and insightful analysis, LaPinta has crafted a masterpiece that not only celebrates the beauty and artistry of quilts but also provides a deeper understanding of their cultural and historical significance. Kentucky Quilts and Quiltmakers is a testament to the enduring power of creativity, community, and commerce, and it serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of quilting heritage.

Weight: 1214g
Dimension: 261 x 212 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780813198187