Themes from QuiltCon 202

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Phoenix Convention Center

Still processing QuiltCon which took place February 19-23 in Phoenix this year!

My quilt, Blue Improvised Silhouette, on the left.

First, I had the joy of seeing two of my quilts displayed in the Handwork category and then I took a closer look at the neighboring quilts on display. I was blown away by the craftsmanship of the entire section. I was so impressed, and quite humbled, by the ideas and execution of all the quilts chosen. They have inspired me to experiment in my own work and push the boundaries even more!

Now that I've had the time to look through my cell phone pics I thought I would share a little of what I observed at the show. Of course, there were reimagined variations on shapes or adaptations of traditional patterns like the Log Cabin. (It's always cool to see how people are rethinking and modernizing old favorites.) I'm also intrigued every year by the quilts that present an optical illusion and especially by the quilts that look different in person from the way they look through the camera lens, . . . fascinating! 

But I also noticed a couple of theme "threads" that I haven't seen highlighted on social media yet. I think they are significant because they show that inspiration can come from all kinds of sources. 

There were several architecture and structure based compositions:
  
                         https://www.rbtlowe.com/                                  Instagram:@runandsew

Inspiration Found at Home! Skydance Bridge, Oklahoma City-
 Oklahoma City MQG         http://www.okcmqg.com/


                                                                                               https://portlandmodernquiltguild.com/

Map inspired quilts:

Harrison Map- Clara Stoikow, Handwork     https://www.bimbambuki.com/


You Are Here- Gabrielle MacIntosh, Improvisation

You Are Here- Kristin Goedert, Small quilts


And even a couple of ladder themed pieces!

Oh, Chute!- Washington DC MQG, Group & Bee category

What, No Elevator? Robin Thomas, Minimalist Design


The Glass Ceiling is Broken but the Ladders aren't Fixed- Robin Thomas, Improvisation

Finally, I'm so grateful for the joy and community spirit evidenced at this show every single time I attend. I love the spontaneous conversations that naturally come up while we stand together appreciating someone's art work, the sharing of ideas, and the mutual support. QuiltCon is a special experience that I look forward to every year. 

Sharing a moment in front of my second quilt, "And a Spot of Red."

So, here's to a creative, productive year. See you at QuiltCon 2026!!!

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