Don’t underestimate the power of textiles and tradition. That’s the take-home message of “Home Sewn: Quilts from the Lower Mississippi Valley” at the Anacostia Community Museum.
The four so-called “fancy” quilts on view (that’s a double wedding ring design at left) were made between 1986 and 1990 using techniques passed down through five generations. (“Fancy” quilts have intricate patterns and deliberate color choices; simpler “plain” or “utilitarian” quilts are made to use up scrap material.)
Selling quilts like these made it possible for African-American women to achieve some financial independence in the rural South. Audio interviews with modern-day quilters, part of the exhibit, show that such quilting communities still thrive.
Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Place SE; through Sept. 21, free; 202-633-4820.