[Photo courtesy: Pasadena Museum of History]
Presented by co-curator/historian Leah Zieber, these Zoom events are illustrated lectures recorded during their original live showings. The titles are “Signed with Love,” “Crazy for Crazy Quilts,” and “Printed Cotton and Textile Manufacturing.”
The program will not just be about the visual appeal of quilts, but will delve deeply into the history and significance of quilting in America, adding depth and context to the art and craft of quilting. Beyond just the art and technique, the presentations touch on themes of family, society, industry, and technology, giving quilters a broader perspective on how their craft fits into the larger world.
Also, hearing insights from such an expert and knowledgeable figure as Leah Zieber will surely provide quilters a more deeply enriching and enlightening experience.
“Signed with Love” will explore some of the special details in the signature quilts on view in the Community Stitches exhibition. Zieber will relate the fascinating history of these pieces, so quilters would understand their significance in the lives of the families who owned them, and hopefully earn a richer appreciation of their craft.
“Crazy for Crazy Quilts” will explore the history behind the popularity of Crazy Quilts in American quilt making from the 1870s through the 1930s. Zieber will showcase some of the unique and striking elements that can be found in the Museum’s Crazy Quilts, including painted and stitched imagery and historical mementoes found within the folds of these quilts.
“Printed Cotton and Textile Manufacturing” ties quilting into the broader tapestry of American history, exploring the history of 19th-century American textile mills and the manufacturing of printed cotton. The inter-relationship between the art of quilting and the Industrial Revolution, and societal changes – such as young women moving out of the home and into the workforce – provides a multi-dimensional view of the craft, enhancing everyone’s appreciation and understanding.
Because these are illustrated lectures, Zoom participants will get to see beautiful imagery of quilts, possibly gaining inspiration for their own projects. The event’s communal approach, with an “encore” presentation and the engagement through Zoom, means that quilters can also feel being part of a larger community.
Sharing passions and insights with others is often a deeply rewarding experience. And since it’s on Zoom, even quilting enthusiasts who could not visit the Pasadena Museum of History in person to view “Community Stiches” can engage and learn.
Pre-registration is required to attend the presentations. Tickets are $15 and free for Pasadena Museum of History members.
Links to the recorded lectures will be sent to all registered participants at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 6.
For online ticketing and additional information, visit https://pasadenahistory.org/events-overview/events-calendar/community-stitches-quilt-designs-stories-quilt-zoom-presentations/ and click on Reserve Now/Purchase Tickets.
“Community Stitches: Quilt Designs and Stories,” featuring more than 60 quilts representing over 180 years of quilt-making in America, will be in the Museum’s History Center Galleries up to Sunday, Sept. 10.
