Please join us for the 29th Annual Quilt Show and see more than 80 amazing hand-crafted quilts on display against the architectural beauty of your community library. We again ring in the New Year with a visual feast brought to you by the partnership between Red Rock Quilters and Sedona Public Library. It is a sight to behold, so mark your calendar, and now through March 2 please come by, look up, and be inspired and amazed.
The Red Rock Quilters is a group of dedicated artists, going strong in since 1986. Their hard work and planning have made this year’s the best show ever! Quilters were literally beaming as they delivered their quilts, and curious staff and patrons watched with wonder. When the show opened on January 8, we were beaming right along with them. It’s an annual joy to see the Library so alive with such gorgeous art.
And these artists’ love of quilting is stunning, especially considering that while some of them have been quilting for years, some are relatively new to this fiber art, one that dates back to the 13th century. This year’s range of sizes, colors, and designs—from classic patterns to re-creations of photographs in fabric—is sure to delight you.
According to Lori Feine, show chairperson, quilt categories for this year’s 81 entries include: Large (greater than 180 inches diameter); Small (smaller than 180 inches diameter); President’s Challenge; Wear, Carry, and Other; and Sedona Quilters Hall of Fame. The Library has prepared an easy written guide for visitors which tells you the name, artist, location, and description of each quilt and indicates whether it is for sale.
And this year, visitors can do more than just view the quilts because Red Rock Quilters is again offering opportunities for the public to learn about, the art of quilting. There will be two Demo Days, Friday, January 19 and Saturday, January 20, with free 30–60-minute demonstrations of quilting techniques. From the traditional to the newest in art quilting—including faced binding, flying geese techniques, applique, color theory, and watercolor—participants will learn all about quilt design. Speakers will discuss important topics like quilt appraisal, barn quilts, and Dia de Los Muertos Ofrendas, as well as storytelling about special quilts.
That’s not all. Another opportunity where the public can engage in quilting is two Make-N-Take days, also on Friday, January 19 and Saturday, January 20. In these hands-on programs, skilled instructors will walk you through simple projects that you can start (and possibly complete) during each one-hour session. Make-N-Take projects include drawing transfer, playing card holder, towel applique, folded fabric ornaments, and a wire heart project. Each project will have a nominal cost of $5, or you can participate in all five projects for $20. No sewing or crafting experience is needed for these projects, and they are open to everyone of all ages.
We asked Lori to suggest a few special quilts, and highlighting any was a tough task for her, but she settled on a few to list in this column with photographs. First up we have “Jardín de los Flores” by Magdalena Castillo-Cockrum (65″ x 65″), a beautiful quilt made using an applique technique that took the creator six months to complete.
Next, Lori suggests you be sure to find “Sinom Ahoy Katsi-Puh-huhtotani – Life Renewed” (56″ x 56″), owned by Jayne Lauman. The designs on this quilt represent Hopi prayers for the renewal of life; prayers are said for all people and living creatures. This quilt was made as a fundraising opportunity to support Hopitutuqaiki (The Hopi School) in Kykotsmovi, Arizona. This quilt was pieced, embroidered, and appliqued by Berdella Masayumptewa, Donna Kaye, Ella Mary Humetewa, Darlene Ahownewa, Janine Bahnimptewa, Dolores Sidney, Glenda Ami, Mary Pat Beach, Wilma Laban, coordinated by Valarie Harris. Machine quilted by Linda Visnaw.
And finally, another quilt Lori knows you will admire is “Smith Rocks” by Cyndy Cook (20″ x 29″). This depiction of one of Oregon’s seven natural wonders is gorgeous in its detail and represents the quilter’s favorite place to hike when she lived in Central Oregon. The color palate closely resembles the color of the rocks in this beautiful Oregon State Park. The river fabric is hand dyed.
And that is a mere three of the 81 entries you will see. Be sure to look at them all more than once. The show is ongoing so feel free to come by again and again, and be sure to tell your friends. Remember, as you tour the show, your vote in the “Viewers’ Choice” Awards is greatly appreciated. Vote for your favorite quilt in each of four categories: 1) large quilts; 2) small quilts; 3) challenge quilts, and 4) favorite wear and carry item. This year’s president’s challenge is “Many Roads Taken.” Judges will also select one quilt for the Arizona Quilters Hall of Fame Award.
Residents and visitors alike are welcome. Sedona Public Library is located at 3250 White Bear Road in West Sedona, and we’re open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday; Wednesday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. See you soon!
Sedona Public Library is a grateful 501(c)(3), private, non-profit, library, and it is individual and public support that makes events like the Annual Quilt Show a possibility. If you are interested in sponsoring this, or any of our events and programs, please contact Anne Marie at amackler@sedonalibrary.org. The Library is funded in large part by the City of Sedona, Coconino County, the Friends of the Sedona Library, and people like you. We also receive a portion of your tax dollars from Yavapai County. Thank you.
As published by Red Rock News
Library News Column for January 12, 2024
Written by Anne Marie Mackler, Development Director