'A Journey in Quilts' Showcases Full Range of Artists

Traditional, contemporary, and applique styles of quilts in all shapes and sizes are on display at the Oconee County Civic Center this weekend during "A Journey of Quilts -- 2013," presented by the Cotton Patch Quilters.

Deb Henderson, show co-chair, said the show features 178 pieces by 100 area guild members.

"We have very traditional people all the way out to people who are called 'art quilters,' who are doing things that are really much more textile-medium kinds of things and not so much what you would think of as a quilt," she explained.

Members not only range in style but in age. Some are in their late 20s; others are in their 80s.

The show provides the artists with an opportunity to showcase their labors of love and also a platform to educate attendees about the craft.

"Most people, especially in America, have a preconceived idea about what quilting is," Henderson said. "Lots of times it's associated with Grandma or Great Aunt Nelly or something, and they will see some examples of that. But they'll also get a chance to see that it can be so much more. It can be small, little pieces.  It can be a very personal expression from me to you.  It can be something that goes on your bed.  It can be a piece of art on the wall.

"So, if they enjoy working with textiles but don't want to do all that great big fancy stuff, they'll see there's a place for lots and lots of different kinds of fabric-related expressions."

The show, which takes place every other year, also serves as a fundraiser.

"This makes the money that we use over the next two or three years to bring in regional and national teachers to speak to us, or to put on workshops for us," Henderson said.  "And it's also used to fund our charitable programs."

And of course, she says, the weekend is a big party.

"We love to get together and eat and play and talk about quilts."

Vendors have quilts and supplies available for purchase at their booths and items made by guild members are also for sale in the boutique area.

The show continues Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday from noon until 4 p.m. Tickets are $6 for adults and $3 for children. 

For more information about the non-profit Cotton Patch Quilters, visit www.cpquilters.org.

See also:

• Watkinsville Author Jonell Kirby Cash Introduces New Book Trailer
• Oconee First Graders Create Eric Carle Inspired Animal Art
• High School Art Students Show off Work
• Oconee Author Uses Warplane to Spin New Tale for Young Readers

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