A juried, touring exhibition, "Art Quilters Celebrate Independence," features artwork by Studio Art Quilt Associates–Pennsylvania (SAQA-PA) in honor of the United States' 250th anniversary. It premiered in Philadelphia, the cradle of liberty, at Moore College of Art & Design during the summer of 2026, and travels to three other prestigious venues, ending in May 2027. Thirty-nine innovative art quilts and quilted artworks explore the independence and freedom of expression, with calls to preserve and protect our constitutional rights, democracy, and diversity. 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 at Moore College of Art & Design and at Phillips’ Mill Community Association. Visitors can purchase a comprehensive, full-color catalog at venue gift shops and on Amazon, as well as very affordable mini-art quilts by members of SAQA-PA. During the exhibition, there will be two opening receptions and multiple docent-led tours, plus I-Spy treasure hunts and a Please Touch station.
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
Contact Person
Eleanor Levie
Contact Email
eleanorlevie@gmail.com
Liberty by Gay Bitter