Whimsy in a World of WHO

Last fall we saw the Whimsy Exhibition at the International Quilt Museum and it was a fun reminder of unique approaches and the use of unusual items in quilts. As we are fighting this pandemic as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) it is easy to forget that sense of creative joy or whimsy. Yet, this might be the time we need those creative juices most.

It is vital to help others by; sewing masks, providing food to the starving, or sending cards to those who need encouragement. In the quilting industry with very small profit margins, it is important to support non-profits and businesses by making purchases, posting/sharing links for others to see, and donating to preserve our treasured museums and businesses. (Experts estimate 21 % of businesses will close in 30 days of “stay at home” and if the restrictions are longer, more than 50% won’t survive.) Teachers have lost all their bookings making sales difficult, museums and shops are forced to close. But during this time, it is also important to take care of ourselves. We are creative people and need to feed our whimsical selves.

These same businesses that might not survive are being approached and asked what they are doing to help. QTC wants to help by providing high quality exhibitions via the Youtube channel. Watch these exhibits for free to see other brilliant quilters and to get inspiration at this link. We are launching a new Triplett Sisters pattern of the cover quilt from our book “Red and Green Quilts of the Poos Collection,” an admirable accomplishment from a 19th century quilter. Please join us as we work on our art form to create and work in community. We also plan to release new medallions to inspire more works of art.

My favorite verse comes to mind, “whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things. So please keep helping individuals with needs, save quilting businesses and museums, and keep quilting. Create whatever is lovely, or excellent or whimsical for you.