Ep 5. Quilts

Craft in America is an engaging and thoughtful television series that explores the rich history and vibrant present of American craft in all its forms. Each episode of this exquisite show focuses on a different medium, technique, or theme, offering fascinating insights into the lives and work of some of the country's most talented artisans and craftspeople.

Season 9 of Craft in America is a particular treat for fans of handmade quilts. Episode 5, titled simply "Quilts," celebrates the long and storied tradition of this beloved craft, from the early days of patchwork to the stunning contemporary designs that are being created today.

Over the course of the hour-long episode, viewers are treated to a wide variety of quilting styles and approaches. The show features interviews with some of the most talented and interesting quilters in the country, as well as breathtaking examples of their work.

We meet Carolyn Mazloomi, a pioneering artist and scholar who has dedicated her life to preserving and promoting the history of African American quilting. Her intricate works combine traditional quilting techniques with vivid colors, bold graphics, and deeply personal themes.

We also hear from Victoria Findlay Wolfe, a modern quilter whose innovative designs draw on both contemporary and traditional elements. Wolfe's quilts are often built around a central grid pattern, but her use of color, texture, and unexpected shapes make them truly unique.

Equally fascinating is the work of Michael Cummings, whose quilts are a celebration of African American life and culture. Cummings uses intricate appliqué techniques to create detailed portraits and scenes that capture the energy and spirit of his subjects.

Other featured artists include Mary Ann Pettway, a member of the Gee's Bend quilters, a group of Alabama women whose bold and improvisational works have earned worldwide acclaim; and Molly Upton, whose minimalist quilts use negative space and simple shapes to create a striking sense of movement.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to images of stunning quilts that are both beautiful and deeply meaningful. From the brightly colored geometric patterns of a 19th-century Amish quilt to the vibrant and intricate creations of contemporary artists, the range and depth of the quilting tradition are truly remarkable.

Along the way, the episode explores some of the key themes and techniques that have underpinned quilting throughout its history. We learn about the significance of traditional quilting patterns and the way they have been passed down through generations of quilters, as well as the role of quilting in bringing communities together.

We also see how technology has changed quilting in recent years, with artists using computer programs to create intricate digital designs that can then be translated into fabric. At the same time, the episode explores the ways in which traditional techniques continue to be practiced and celebrated by people around the country.

Throughout the episode, viewers are also treated to intimate glimpses of the lives and personalities of the quilters themselves. Each artist shares their own unique story of how they became involved in quilting, and what the craft means to them personally. The result is a show that feels both deeply personal and widely universal, offering an intimate window into the lives and work of some of America's most talented craft artists.

Overall, Craft in America season 9 episode 5 is a captivating and deeply moving celebration of the art of quilting. Whether you are a longtime fan of the craft or simply interested in learning more about this fascinating tradition, this episode is sure to captivate and inspire in equal measure.