When you mention quilts, the image that immediately comes to mind is that of an American pieced or patchwork bed quilt. However, the roots of quilting go back for centuries in other parts of the world with origins far beyond the borders of America. Quilts originally had been made with function as their first priority. The makers used quilting as an avenue for individual creative expression, many recording the circumstances of their world, to speak of concerns, express appreciation, to celebrate births and mark marriages, to commemorate the dead.

The aim of this year’s Material Culture exhibition is to present quilters from our region, many from the Miami Valley. The quilters listed on the left are scheduled to exhibit their work and provide demonstrations and to interact in a personal way with festival-goers, as well as participate in talks and workshops.

Quilting remains a precious legacy, both the process of creation and the end result. It is an art form, combining women’s—and men’s—handwork with fine art. Contemporary quilters’ work may shine on their merit, but they are part of a shared heritage. This year, through the art of quilts, Cityfolk celebrates this handing down.