What is an Art Quilt?

Studio Art Quilt Associates (SAQA) is an international organization dedicated to promoting the art quilt — art that is layered and stitched, or that references layering and stitching. This broad definition allows many techniques, materials and styles to be used by artists in their creations. SAQA holds many juried shows exhibited in art galleries and museums around the world, as well as more local exhibits. A regional group named the Land Between Pod started in 2018 with members in the Kawarthas and surrounding areas. This is part of the geographical area known as the Land Between, the southern edge of the Canadian Shield. During the pandemic lockdown meetings moved online, and SAQA members from across Ontario, Quebec and even Europe were welcomed to join the pod.

In 2024 the group chose “The Land Between” as the theme for a challenge. The objective was to explore what this meant to members personally, not just as a specific physical area. How does it reflect in their art? What social, economic and environmental issues do they face? Are they “between” in their work – starting to transition from one style to another?

All work is mounted on a 12” x 12” artist canvas. Participating artists used a variety of designs, materials and techniques. Some are abstract, some are representational, some are dimensional, some include photography or painting. Some use natural or synthetic dyes. One incorporates a map, another one bra cups. Some are heavily hand or machine embroidered. All have some form of stitching on fabric.

The Land Between exhibit is on display at the Perth Public Library until the end of March, during the hours that the library is open. Additional art quilts are included in the Perth show due to available space. Some of the quilts are available for sale. While viewers are normally requested not to touch quilts on display, there is one quilt at this show that can be touched. It is made from used denim clothing and has a zillion pockets on it!

Anita Payne De Gaia will host tours of the exhibit on Saturday, January 31 at 1pm, Thursday, February 5 at 1pm, Saturday, February 28 at 2pm and Tuesday, March 31 at 4pm. Registration is required at the Perth & District Union Library website perthunionlibrary.libcal.com/calendar.

On March 31, the last day of the exhibit, several of the artists will be at the library for a “Meet the Artists” event from 5–7pm. Come to the Perth Library to find out what an art quilt is!