Through historic and contemporary quilts spanning over 200 years, Stitching the Revolution: Quilts as Agents of Change traces the long history of quiltmaking as a powerful tool for communicating revolutionary ideas.
Stitching the Revolution: Quilts as Agents of Change offers a new interpretation of quilting in its examination of the ways that quilts have long been used to express political positions, advocate for equal rights, and speak truth to power, particularly by women and marginalized communities who often lack access to more official channels. The combination of historic and contemporary quilts demonstrates the longevity of this tradition and the diverse identities of quilters who employ this accessible and versatile medium. This exhibition is not intended to be a comprehensive survey of socially engaged quiltmaking in the United States but rather a sampling of the historic and contemporary issues addressed through the medium, including abolition and race relations, women’s rights, LGBTQ+ issues, gun violence, and environmental advocacy. Blurring the boundary between art and craft, this exhibition highlights the complex messages and meanings that have been stitched into quilts throughout American history. Stitching the Revolution disrupts preconceived notions about both American history and quilting history, while encouraging reflection on current social issues and their relationship to the past.
Mattatuck Museum
2,000-3,000 square feet, approximately 250 linear feet
Art Bridges is dedicated to partnering with and supporting institutions that focus on developing engaging, accessible, and dynamic exhibitions. Art Bridges provides 20% to 70% of total eligible costs while it's at your museum and significant funding for Learning & Engagement programming for outreach and engagement to bring new audiences.