Book Review: Quilt National 2011

This beautiful hardback book presents, in striking color photography and detailed-yet-concise descriptions by the artists themselves, the 86 works of fiber art that were accepted for the 2011 exhibition at The Dairy Barn Arts Center in Athens, Ohio.

Quilt National is possibly the most prestigious juried art-quilt exhibit in the U.S., and has been called “the premier international showcase for contemporary quilts” by The Wall Street Journal.  As a fiber artist myself, I know that it takes tremendous talent, imagination, and determination to ultimately have a piece accepted by Quilt National.  Many fine artists try for years and years before finally (if ever) having work shown there.

Some previous editions of the Quilt National book have not had, in my opinion, the excellent quality of photography that this 2011 edition displays.  Each image is large, clear, and, as far as I can tell, color-correct.  Many of the pages also have detail shots, so that the reader can see a closer view of the piecing, painting, stitching and other minutia of these works of art.  It is especially exciting to be able to see the fine quilted details.  The artists’ statements are all well-written and interesting, adding yet another layer of personal enjoyment to the images.

I received this book in consideration for writing an independent review, but having now reviewed it, I can honestly say that I would have bought it anyway.  Definitely a keeper for your library, this book can be ordered directly from Lark Crafts or through Amazon.com.

P.S.  Deb Boschert has posted a unique review of this book on her blog.  If you are interested in unusual, if unofficial, statistics about Quilt National entries, take a look ... it's quite fascinating!