Jane’s
Modern Quilt
As I thought about this theme, I could only think about the
new trend in quilting from new quilters called Modern Quilts. This does not
particularly appeal to me although I am very pleased to see a new, young group
of quilters getting involved in fabric skills.
Modern detail
When I look at modern quilts, I see lots of gray and white
used in large expanses, minimal use of color, and dense quilting. The dense
quilting is the only thing that resonates with me. So I got started…trying to
create a modern quilt and very glad that I could use a small format. I returned
to the 12” x 12” shape. I chose some mostly black and gray and white fabrics
and made some small wonky log cabin blocks. I was pleased with them and I had
included an ikat fabric with all the colors in it. When I pieced the blocks
into a background of light gray, I wasn’t quite as happy. But I persevered and
came up with a square. I started quilting this block which took quite a while.
As I was working on it, I decided to add my own artistic touch. I was just
trying to make it my own.
Modern supplies
I thought adding some paint to the surface would be
interesting. I chose silver and black pearl. That is when it started going
south. I could no longer see the log cabin blocks or the lovely fabrics I had
used. I then decided to add some graffiti type marks with some positive
affirmations to lift it from the gray prison I had created. Nothing worked. I
will include a picture of this “failure”.
Modern trial
Back to square 1:
At least I had enough fabric left to start another little
quilt. This time I kept it simple. No paint, no innovative piecing, no creative
textures. I even put a binding on it. Most of the time while I was constructing
it, I felt muzzled. I did that to myself. I can hardly wait to see what the
rest of you have made with this theme. It always amazes me. Thanks, Gail for a
very challenging theme.
I saw another exhibit of Modern Quilts recently. I still
don’t want to go there. Perhaps one of you can enlighten me about this trend. I
would love to hear your opinions.
Jane, your quilt is just right for the theme! As usual, the stitching is lovely. Comparing the two quilts, I can agree you made the right decision. Like you, I made two complete quilts and had even faced my Version One before starting over. I wasn't brave enough, though, to post my own Version One quilt!
ReplyDeleteVery nice interpretation of modern quilt design Jane. I also couldn't get "modern quilts" out of my thoughts. I agree with Alice that you chose the right design. Gorgeous quilting!
ReplyDeleteI like your use of greys. I agree I am not completely in love with the modern trend but it does make you think about the difference in styles. Wonderful quilting.
ReplyDeleteYup. The second quilt is more soothing and seems to be more along the lines of the modern quilt style. When they first came into the picture they only used solid colors and I remember when I started quilting I did that also. I could concentrate on color and design instead of texture. If you look at the more recent modern quilts they are starting to add fabrics with texture and not leaving as much negative space. It is fun to see how styles develop. Love your quilting!
ReplyDeleteI like this version as your piecing and stitching are beautifully highlighted. The wavy quilting contrasts nicely with the linear piecing. I agree that the pieced log cabins and your quilting are obscured in the "failure" but I like the gritty,urban feel it evokes which also fits the modern theme. I like them both!!
ReplyDeleteThe stitching is just wonderful. I do like your square 1 best. The second one did turn out a bit dull to my eye.
ReplyDeleteThank you Jane! Glad you were challenged. See, you rose to the occasion. It's good to get out of your own backyard. Lol. Great lack of color and directional quilting.
ReplyDeleteyou did choose the right quilt to go with the theme but I think your "failure" is very intriguing.
ReplyDeleteI think your quilt fits the theme perfectly ! Stark contrast between background and blocks, and your free-motion quilting beautifully guides you right back to looking at the blocks ! Great job, and an A+ for persistence !
ReplyDeleteI love the simplicity of the minimal quilt that you decided to go with, but there is something very appealing about your first attempt also. The quilting is wonderful in both.
ReplyDeletePersonally, I think you have two winners. They are very different, but both are perfect for our theme. Great job twice!!
ReplyDeleteFabulous quilting! Love the use of neutrals! Great job!
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