How does an art quilt differ from a "regular" quilt? Aren't all quilts works of art? Of course they are. But there is a difference between one intended for utilitarian purposes and one that is created for viewing only. The definition of a quilt is "two or more layers held together by stitch". That leaves a pretty wide open category as far as I'm concerned.The horse is a quilt. It consists of three layers, a top, batting in the middle and a backing - all held together with stitch. This "quilt" is also painted with dye and then enhanced with thread to create texture, and depth as well as highlight. It is stretched on stretcher bars similarly to a canvas.
The next image is also a "quilt", consisting of three layers held together by stitch. It is far too small to be used on a bed and was intended to hang on the wall even though it is not stretched as the one above. This piece is also mixed media in that it has been painted, beaded, and foil adhered to the image.Art quilting is an area of exploration in which different materials and techniques are utilized so that the artist can express her/himself, just like any art form.
What other questions might people have about this art form? What might other art quilters like to say about how they work?
