Why Quilts Matter

Shelly Zegart began as a quilt collector but has since become a leading advocate in the promotion of quilts as art and as vital historical records. In this nine-episode series, which aired on select PBS stations, Zegart reveals through photographs and interviews just how essential quilts are in studying American culture. Historically, quilts have provided a window into the lives and thoughts of their makers, which is particularly true regarding the lives of women, including those of different classes, races, and religions. Some quiltmakers, for example, Kathleen Loomis, Mariya Waters, and Penny Sisto, have become well known for their work, becoming accepted as artists. Currently, there are millions of quilters supporting a hugely profitable business worldwide, with quilts hanging in art museums and commanding premium prices among collectors. This compelling and visually rich series convinces us that quilts do matter. Beyond the film, the website includes information on all of the highlighted photographs.