The Cleveland Museum of Art Special Exhibitions The Quilts of Gee's Bend


Lucy T. Pettway (American, b. 1921)
“Snowball” , c. 1950
Cotton, corduroy, cotton sacking material
85 x 85 in.
Collection of the Tinwood Alliance
Cat. Pg. 151
The Quilts of Gees Bend
June 27 - September 12, 2004

The quilts from Gee's Bend represent a unique body of American art, created by over 40 quilters from three and sometimes four generations, raised in one small, isolated African-American community of about 1000 people. Such rare concentrations of creativity reflect the character of their lives during the 20th century, from poverty during the Depression to increased plenty in recent years. Quilters recycled cloth from worn-out clothes, which were later replaced by scraps from factories and eventually purchased goods. The women arranged them in innovative bold compositions of color and line, based on the need to provide warmth for their families. Art, function and humanity are thoroughly integrated in these beautiful quilts.

Admission is $8 for adults; $7 for seniors and college students; $5 for groups of 15 or more; $4 for students ages 6 to 18; free to visitors the first Wednesday of each month (July 7, August 4, September 1) between 5 and 9 p.m. and for CMA members and children five and under at all times. Also free Saturday September 11 (all day) Advance reservations are recommended and are available by calling (216) 421-7350 or 1-888-CMA-0033 or buying online at www.ClevelandArt.org.


About the Exhibition

Also on Display

Related Programs

Catalogue: The Quilts of Gee's Bend

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