A juried, touring exhibition, "Art Quilters Celebrate Independence," will feature artwork by Studio Art Quilt Associates–Pennsylvania (SAQA-PA) in honor of the 250th anniversary of the United States. It premieres in Philadelphia, the cradle of liberty, at Moore College of Art & Design during the summer of 2026, and then travels to three other prestigious venues. Between forty and fifty innovative art quilts and quilted artworks will explore the broad meaning of independence and freedom of expression—from reflections on constitutional rights and democracy to interpretations of America’s multicultural heritage, music, and history. All works connect with America's storied past, yet exemplify exciting conceptual and technical departures from tradition.
Most of the works will be available for purchase, while visitors can also purchase a comprehensive, full-color catalog, and very affordable small works by members of SAQA-PA. During the exhibition, there will be three opening receptions and multiple docent-led tours, plus I-Spy treasure hunts, a Please Touch station, and quiltmaking workshops for families.
As part of the quarter-millennial celebration of the events of 1776, this exciting exhibition will pay homage to our past as it expands public engagement with contemporary textile art, advancing SAQA’s mission for recognition of the art quilt as a fine art medium.
Exhibition Schedule
Moore College of Art & Design, Philadelphia, PA: June 12, 2026 to August 29, 2026
Pennsylvania National Quilt Extravaganza, Oaks, PA: Sept. 17, 2026 to Sept. 20, 2026
Phillips’ Mill Community Association, New Hope, PA: November 13, 2026 to December 13, 2026
Reading Public Museum, Reading, PA: January 30, 2027 to May 23, 2027
