Handspun Bedspread c. 1937

Julie Brush’s Handspun Bedspread design presents a fascinating interplay of geometric forms in blue and white. The design prominently features a central square motif, elaborated by floral and vegetal designs, that speaks volumes about cultural memory and identity. Consider how similar geometric patterns appear in ancient textiles worldwide, from Grecian key patterns to Chinese lattice work. These designs serve not only as decoration but also as emblems of cultural continuity. The square, a symbol of stability, can be seen in mandalas to city layouts, representing order and structure. This speaks to humanity’s need to bring structure to the chaos of our world. What is revealed in the bedspread is more than mere pattern. It reflects a deep-seated connection to ancestral practices and the emotional comfort found in familiar forms. This artwork highlights the non-linear progression of symbols—how they resurface, evolve, and are imbued with new meanings across generations.