Patches of Diamond Patchwork Quilt c. 1937

This "Patches of Diamond Patchwork Quilt" was made by Edith Magnette sometime in the twentieth century, and it gives us a real insight into her way of working, and her relationship to materials. Just look at the way each diamond shape is filled with different patterns and textures. It's all about the feel of the fabric, the weave and the weight, and how they come together to create something new. Take, for instance, the diamond in the third row from the top, second from the left. See how the stripes in shades of blues and browns and creams are all slightly different widths, creating a rhythm that feels almost musical? Quilts have a long history and are often associated with domesticity and craft, but they can also be seen as a form of abstract expressionism. Like the work of Gee's Bend quilters, for instance, Edith's quilt challenges traditional notions of art and redefines the boundaries of creativity. We can see the influence of artists like Paul Klee, who explored the relationship between color, form, and music.