(Editor’s Note: GenQ contributor Stephanie Thompson shared these thoughts and images from a recent quilt show she attended. Nothing says summer like quilts flapping in a warm breeze!)
by Stephanie Thompson
Quilts grow on trees in Kansas…at least they were earlier this summer at the Bartlett Arboretum in Belle Plaine, Kansas. On any day, a stroll through the arboretum reveals a wondrous vision of gardens, flowers and walkways surrounded by tall trees. On Mother’s Day, though, there were quilts in every sight-line, at every level, flapping and fluttering magically in the tree tops. It was like a quilt-sized version of prayer flags!
Located 20 miles south of Wichita, the century-old Bartlett Arboretum is home to massive cypress, oaks and champion Japanese maples. For nearly 100 years, many generations of Kansans have enjoyed this unique sanctuary once touted as “the only mature arboretum between the Mississippi River and the Rocky Mountains.”
This exhibition was a dual celebration of the legacy of motherhood and the 104th year of the Bartlett Arboretum. The brainchild of avid arboretum volunteer Pam Gerber, this inaugural show brought together 104 quilts, handed-down family treasures, found favorites and handmade gems culled from the collections of the arboretum volunteer crew known as the Soil Sisters and Brothers. And it certainly lived up to its promise that it would not be a standard quilt presentation. The juxtaposition of the quilts in nature was mesmerizing and meaningful as they came alive with the motion of the wind and the changing light of the sun.
The eldest of the vintage quilts was a mere 164 years old, and many others were crafted in the early 1900’s. They were on display in a old train depot stationed on the grounds, which doubles as an arts classroom. The opportunity for up-close inspection allowed a glimpse into the intricacy of the handwork. There’s no denying they were made with lots of love and meant to last!
The Depot porch was also the location for a lecture by local textile historian Noni England. She discussed quilt history and culture with a rapt audience. The day’s event was capped off by a concert by the Cherokee Maidens and Sycamore Swing.
COMMENT #1
Thanks for taking us along to see the quilts in the trees and telling us about the beautiful arboretum Stephanie!