"Modern Materials, Quilts of the 1970s" press release

For Immediate Release: August 19, 2015
Contact: Mark Tolonen, Curator of Exhibitions
Phone: 541.929.6230

Modern Materials: Quilts of the 1970s

Philomath, Ore. – The 2015 Quilt County exhibition at Benton County Museum, “Modern Materials: Quilts of the 1970s from The Volckening Collection”, has turned the gallery into a kaleidoscope of brilliant polyester fabrics, American themes and phenomenon.  The exhibition is open through October 3, 2015.

The enthusiastic revival of quilting experienced across the United States during the 1970s created a colorful cultural snapshot of American life. The “Modern Materials” quilt exhibition is a space for visitors to immerse themselves in that era.  

Naturally, the American Bicentennial theme is well represented. Healthy doses of both Kesey-esque neon colors, and the infamous avocado green and harvest gold palate make their appearances in the polyester fabrics. One quilt from Hawaii is made from scraps left over from the production of Hawaiian shirts made for export.

"Klee" 1973 by Marsha Mccluskey of Eugene, Oregon

A 1973 quilted wall hanging by Eugene artist Marsha McCloskey is a response to Paul Klee’s 1928 oil painting “Castle and Sun”. Bill Volckening's blog for the Kentucky Quilt Project states that McCloskey’s artistry “…cleverly asks the question, 'are quilts art?'"

Portland collector Bill Volckening is an award-winning author and photographer and lover of all things quilt-related. Quilts from The Volckening Collection have been exhibited from New York to Tokyo, and appeared in various publications worldwide. His new book “New York Beauty, Quilts from the Volckening Collection” published by Quiltmania in France (2015) references his 2011 quilt exhibition at Benton County Museum.

During the month of September, Benton County, Oregon becomes Quilt County, presenting simultaneous quilt exhibitions in venues throughout Corvallis and Philomath.  A complete map and listing of events is available at www.quiltcounty.org.

Enjoy a visit to Oregon’s past AND present!  The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 – 4:30. Admission is always free!   

Located six miles west of Corvallis on Hwy 20/34, at 1101 Main Street, Philomath, Oregon, the Benton County Historical Society operates the Museum facilities for the preservation of history and culture.  Its goal is to preserve the material culture of Benton County, Oregon.  It strives to enrich people’s lives through interesting exhibitions and educational programs.

Please call (541) 929-6230 or visit www.bentoncountymuseum.org for more information.