Applique Quilt 1938

This Applique Quilt was made by Suzanne Roy sometime between 1855 and 1995, using the technique of applique, so stitching shapes onto a background fabric. It's really playful, like a sampler or visual diary. Looking at this quilt, I’m struck by the way the shapes create little worlds, contained within their grid. The colour palette is quite restricted. Reds, greens, and creams dominate, giving the whole piece a harmonious, almost folk-art feel. Take a look at the image of the hands. They are surrounded by flowers, it’s just really nice. I think the artist has used the quilt as a space to explore personal symbols. The overall effect is one of a charming, handmade object, full of character and warmth. It makes me think a little of the quilts by Rosie Lee Tompkins. Like Tompkins, Roy seems to be driven by intuition and personal expression, rather than strict adherence to tradition. Quilts like this are not just about warmth, they’re a process!