Quilt expert Xenia Cord will present a lecture on the social and historical importance of quilt kits at noon, June 24 at the International Quilt Study Center and Museum.
“A Whole New Light: The Significance of 20th Century Kits,” will offer a new perspective on a popular tradition in American quilt making. Cord, the IQSCM’s acquisitions coordinator, is a scholar, author, dealer and collector, whose expertise extends from early American quilt making to contemporary traditions.
The lecture is free with admission and accompanies the exhibition, “Modern Marvels: Quilts Made from Kits, 1915-1950,” which opened on June 6. “Modern Marvels” features some of the quilts, designers, companies and publications that were popular in the United States during the first half of the 20th century. Admission to the museum is free for faculty, staff and students (with a valid NCard).
“Xenia Cord’s wealth of knowledge is truly amazing,” said Carolyn Ducey, curator of collections. “She is one of the most accomplished and respected scholars in quilt history. It is truly an honor to have her here to launch our new lecture series.”
Cord’s lecture is the first supported by the Mary Ann Beavers Fund for Public Programming and Outreach Support at Quilt House. Through the fund, this lecture will be recorded and made available online at a later date.
“This lecture series gives us an opportunity to bring in incredibly gifted scholars and artists who are leaders in their field,” Ducey said. “In turn, we are able to offer these lectures to the world, through our website, and provide insight for people interested in all areas of quilts and quilt making, from historical to contemporary and studio practices.”
The next lecture sponsored by the Beavers Fund is Sept. 5 and will feature quilt-artist Luke Haynes’ presentation on his artistic process, which includes using recycled clothing.
