On this week’s episode of Out and About, Mae Gilliland of ArtsPartners of Central Illinois talks with Joyce Blank, quilt show co-chair for Gems of the Prairie Quilters, about the group’s annual quilt show taking place Aug. 22 and 23 at the Life Together Center in Peoria.
Featuring more than 300 quilts created by local quilters, the show highlights a wide range of styles, sizes, techniques and traditions. Visitors can also explore quilting demonstrations, shop from 15 vendors and experience a traditional “bed turning,” where quilts are layered on a bed and revealed one at a time as their stories are shared.
Blank says the show offers an opportunity to appreciate the incredible talent found throughout Central Illinois. “It’s just quite an experience to see all of these beautiful quilts that the women and men of this area make,” she said.
The guild’s work also extends well beyond the annual show. Members create quilts and other handmade items for organizations including the Children’s Hospital of Illinois and the Center for Prevention of Abuse. The show will also include Quilts of Valor presentations honoring veterans and service members with handmade quilts created as an expression of gratitude for their service.
For those who have never quilted themselves, Blank says there is still plenty to appreciate. “Hopefully they will appreciate the time and the effort and the skill that went into making all of these quilts,” she said. “Plus, it’s just eye candy to look at.”
The Gems of the Prairie Quilt Show takes place Aug. 22 and 23 at the Life Together Center in Peoria.
