In 1775 the color, Scheel’s Green, was discovered and later in 1814, the much-improved Paris Green was developed. Both pigments were created by chemists and produced a remarkable shade of emerald green by combining chemicals that produced arsenic poison. This vibrant green was extremely popular among the privileged because it symbolized royalty and wealth. Despite the deadly drawbacks, fashions, wallpaper, soaps, paints, and toys were produced in abundance. Factory workers who produced these commodities as well as consumers suffered severe side effects including death. By the end of the 19th century, the deadly greens were replaced with less toxic pigments and dyes.
The art quilts produced for “A Drop of Emerald Green” have just a touch of today’s safe emerald green as a reminder of the tragic history of the color green.
Exhibition Schedule
Indiana Heritage Quilt Show, Bloomington, Indiana: February 29 - March 2, 2024
Marathon Center for the Performing Arts, Fisher Gallery Findlay, Ohio: May 13 - June 26, 2024
The Art Museum of Greater Lafayette, Lafayette, Indiana: May 2, 2025 - September 14, 2025
Additional Venues will be added: estimated to travel through January 2027
Catalog Available fro purchase on Amazon