Time out from the vat, a bit of a scrub up, and out with the posh 'frock'. A visit to the V&A, London to see the exhibiions "Quilts - 1700-2010".
No photos, but you can go to the website, find the link to "Blogs". Plenty of pix there and interesting information.
The queue was out of the door. Fortunately I booked online - top tip if you are thinking of visiting. The exhibition was crowded, a lot of standing and waiting a for a space to get up close, and listening to interesting conversations!
An amazing collection, all beautiful. Some from rich families made with fabrics brought from India in the 18th century, to utilitarian quilts, commemorative quilts, funky applique quilts, and contemporary quilts.
I should have made more notes, however a few thoughts on quilts which impressed me for one reason or another.
A cot quilt made by Priscilla Redding from Deal, Kent 1690-1720, together with her notebook. See blog.
Finecell Work by prisoners in Wandsworth Prison. There is a video of inmates explaining what stitching, quiltmaking meant to them. One remark 'sewing helps me to be more in control of myself'.
The Raja Quilt - named after the ship taking women convicts to Australia. They were given bags of fabric and sewing materials to make quilts, not only to occupy themselves, but with the hope they would be able gain a living in their new land.
The quilt made in Changi Prison by young girls, Brownies and Guides, from their frocks, away from the eyes of the prison guards, and given as a present to the Guide Leader.
Finally, Tracey Emin's Bed. Now I must admit I was a bit 'sniffy' over this! Wrong, it is a beautiful bed, drapes, cushions etc, with appliqued messages. Strong stuff. Made you think.
Many of the quilts on exhibit appear in quilting books, but there is nothing quite like seeing them in the 'flesh'.
A bouquet for quilters past and present
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