Frist Art Museum Unpacks the Fabric of American Identity in New Quilt Show

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Summary

  • Fabric of a Nation: American Quilt Stories from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston will be on view in Nashville from June 27 through October 12.
  • Featuring nearly 50 quilts and coverlets from the MFA Boston’s textile collection, the exhibition explores the medium’s evolution and its unsung makers.

The simple quilt has been a significant figure in folk art museums across the nation for quite some time now, but in more recent times, it’s found itself stepping into mainstream prominence. Along this trajectory, an upcoming exhibition titled “Fabric of a Nation: American Quilt Stories” at Nashville’s Frist Art Museum, will feature almost 50 quilts and coverlets from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Each piece is a stunning tapestry of personal and political narratives woven together.

Over a period exceeding three centuries, this exhibit showcases the transformation of quilting, interweaving it with the tapestry of American identity, one stitch at a time. Ranging from 18th-century treasures to pieces crafted as recently as 2021, the display honors the narratives attached to these fabric artifacts, while also highlighting the unrecognized contributors and perspectives often omitted in conventional art chronicles.

According to senior curator Katie Delmez, modern quilters have broadened the scope of their craft to incorporate various techniques, materials, and designs. Originally serving primarily as a source of warmth, practicality, and handicraft, quilting underwent a transformation in the mid-19th century into an art form in its own right, as creators found a stronger connection with textile artistry.

Today, contemporary quiltmaking serves as a versatile platform for artistic and cultural exploration, attracting creators from diverse backgrounds. They use this medium to address contemporary issues such as racism, gun violence, immigration, Indigenous rights, and more. In this creative sphere, fabric transforms into a gentle yet resilient testament to the intricate tapestry of American experiences, reflecting the multitude of narratives that unfold.

Head to the Frist’s website for more information.

Frist Art Museum
919 Broadway,
Nashville, TN 37203

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2025-05-27 19:55