Quilting Genius 2: The Improvisational Quilts of Susana Allen Hunter
The Henry Ford
Dearborn, Michigan
Thirty quilts made by Susana Allen Hunter and other objects from her house in Alabama are showcased in this temporary exhibit developed at The Henry Ford. Susana’s story is told through quotes from her children and grandchildren providing a glimpse of life in rural Alabama. Her story provides context for quilts made from recycled fabrics made quickly because they were used to keep warm, not hung on walls.
Two quilts hang on a clothesline in front of a cotton field mural at the entrance. Visitors then move into an exhibit space displaying objects from her house designed to give a feel for the house in which she lived. The exhibit then opens up to a large, uncluttered space where the quilts can be viewed in a gallery like setting.
The varied spatial environment is further defined by the use of strong color and light. A table in one area allows visitors to design patterns with fabric shapes. Nearby, they can add comments about their experiences and reactions to quilts.
Hutchinson Studios provided exhibit and graphic design services for this exhibit.
February, 2008
