A new exhibition at the International Quilt Study Center and Museum showcases a diverse body of work made by contemporary artists.

“Layered Voices,” a juried exhibition from 23 studio art quilt associates members, will make its debut at the IQSCM April 4 at the International Quilt Study Center. University of Nebraska-Lincoln students, faculty and employees can visit with free admission from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. The museum will offer extended hours from 4 to 7 p.m. April 7 for First Friday.

“This new exhibition celebrates the beauty, imagination and intrigue of some of today’s top artists,” said Leslie Levy, Ardis and Robert James executive director of the International Quilt Study Center and Museum. “We hope ‘Layered Voices’ will challenge visitors to expand the way they view quilts.”

More than 500 artists submitted work for consideration. They were encouraged to explore the concept literally and metaphorically.

For example, “Core Sample” by Regina Benson of Golden, Colorado, depicts the Earth’s layers, inspired by geological core samples. While “Happy Today,” by Leah Higgins of Manchester, United Kingdom, was created as a reaction to a loved one’s depression.

“These works reveal an overarching awareness on the part of the artists of the cycles of creation and destruction that bring you change,” wrote Rise Nagin, the exhibition’s juror and a Pittsburgh-based artist. “Each, in its way, communicates a sense of the fragility and poignancy of our human condition.”

Commonly known as SAQA, the international member organization’s mission is to promote the art quilt through education, exhibitions, professional development, documentation and publications.

“Layered Voices” is being held in conjunction with “Creation to Curation,” a joint symposium organized by the IQSCM and SAQA in Lincoln, April 27-30. Expected to draw more than 200 artists and scholars from around the world, the symposium will feature lectures and programs covering a range of topics, aimed at helping artists grow.

In addition to “Layered Voices,” the IQSCM will display other exhibits featuring contemporary artwork, including:

• “Log Cabins by Luke Haynes,” showing through April 29
• “Quilt Japan,” showing through May 21
• “Like Breath on Glass: Studio work by Linda Colsh,” opening April 11

“Layered Voices” is made possible through funding from the Nebraska Arts Council and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment with additional support from Friends of the IQSCM. It will be on display at the museum through July 30.