Quilt Applique (Stars) 1935 - 1942

This "Quilt Applique (Stars)" work was made with watercolour by an anonymous artist. There is something so intimate about watercolour, like you’re leaning in close to hear a secret. And the pattern of the star here is so playful, like a kaleidoscope of fabric scraps. I love the way the colours bleed into each other, creating a soft, almost dreamy effect. See how the floral pattern wraps around the edges of each section? It's as if the artist is embracing the imperfections of the material. Looking at this piece, I'm reminded of Gee's Bend quilts, those stunning, improvisational masterpieces made by Black women in Alabama. They both share this incredible sense of freedom and spontaneity. And, like those quilts, this star feels like more than just a design, it’s a piece of someone’s history, a story told in shapes and colours. A beautiful mystery.