Tuesday, February 19, 2013

TESAA 2013 Part 1 - Quilts in the Baltimore Manner

Greetings dear blog readers and fellow quilt lovers!  I was very fortunate to spend the last 10 days  in Colonial Williamsburg, Virgina and attend The Elly Sienkiewicz Applique Academy; TESAA as it is affectionately called by attendees.  It was an action packed event that included stitching with new and old friends, many side trips to local museums, shopping, and delicious dining.  The very first day in attendance, we were fortunate to attend an exhibition at the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum entitled Quilts in the Baltimore Manner.  The small group was led by none other than Elly Sienkiewicz.  Elly has written over 20 books on Baltimore style quilts and is credited with the revival and current popularity of this intricate applique style. 
Rather than bore you with narrative, I would like to share the photos I was able to take of the exhibit.  These were some of the more unusual and ornate blocks.  As you view the photos, keep in mind that these stitchers were in love with the industrial revolution and the marvels of their time.  They used all and any materials available to them to express their artistic vision; paint, ink, thread, paste, fussy cutting, etc.  Their work is filled political, religious, and social commentary. I really believe these free souls were the art quilters of their time.  Of course that is just my humble opinion. 
Classic we all recognize!

I love the simplicity of this basket!

Sweetest bird block ever!

Love the tiny basket filled with large blooms!

Beautiful perspective!

Loaded with symbols!

Can you see the white thread? 

Another classic block!

More symbolism!

One of my favorite classic designs!

 




Beautiful White Rose block!

The museum reproduced several classic blocks on tiles to allow you to lay them out and create various settings. 

















Included in the show was a spectacular brodrie perse quilt and a stuffed white work quilt.  Enjoy!







Until next time...

Best stitches,
Mercy in Miami