MARTINSVILLE, Va. (Oct. 12, 2026) — Piedmont Arts will host an opening reception at the museum from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13, in honor of its new exhibits.
“The Art of the Quilt: Journey” and “Happy 250th Birthday, America” by the Virginia Foothills Quilters Guild will be on display.
Pianist Ann Nichols will provide live music at the reception. A gallery talk with “The Art of the Quilt” curators Linda M. Fiedler and Betty Blessin will take place at 6:15 p.m. in the galleries. This event is free and open to the public. An RSVP is requested by Wednesday, Nov. 11, to 276.632.3221 or online here.
“The Art of the Quilt” is a vibrant celebration of contemporary fiber art. The exhibition brings together more than 90 quilted works by artists from across the southeastern United States, showcasing the region's remarkable diversity of artistic voices and quilting traditions.
Inspired by the theme “Journey,” artists used a wide range of techniques, styles, and personal narratives to reflect on the many journeys that have shaped their lives, whether physical, emotional, spiritual, or creative.
The exhibit features traditional bed quilts, art quilts, wearable textiles, and innovative mixed-media pieces. Each work demonstrates how quilting has evolved into a sophisticated art form, using color, texture, pattern, and stitching to tell compelling stories and express individual perspectives.
This biennial exhibition is curated by master quilter Linda M. Fiedler and Betty Blessin. First held in 1998, it is now in its 15th year at Piedmont Arts.
The Lynwood Artists Gallery features work by members of the Virginia Foothills Quilters Guild. This biennial group exhibition showcases the artistry and enduring tradition of quilting in all its forms, from heirloom-style bed coverings to striking wall hangings and imaginative wearable pieces.
Themed "Happy 250th Birthday, America," this exhibit celebrates American quilting traditions and the vibrant quilting culture that continues to thrive in the foothills of Southern Virginia.
The exhibits will be on display Nov. 14, 2026-Jan. 9, 2027. Exhibit admission is always free.
The exhibits and reception are sponsored by Bunco Babes, Olivia and Pres Garrett, Libby Kormos, Nancy Philpott, Julie Thomas, Jackie Thornton, Brenda and Joe Williams, Virginia Foothills Quilters Guild, Helen S. and Charles G. Patterson Jr. Charitable Foundation Trust, Lynwood Artists, and What's Your Sign.
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