African American Quilts

“Quilting is mostly singing,” according to Nettie Young of Gee’s Bend, Alabama. Like singing, quilting is often a communal activity. Quilters gather to cut, piece, and stitch layers of fabric together, whether making “plain” quilts for warmth or “fancy” quilts for display. The group effort quickens the project’s pace and creates space for sharing skills and stories, sorrows and celebrations. Passing on traditions constructs a special sense of community along with a quilt. Through the lens of African American quilts, explore layers of creativity, diversity, and family history that enrich the fabric of communities.