Bedspread c. 1939

This “Bedspread” drawing was created by Henry Granet, though the date of its making is unknown, and depicts a potential quilt design. The medium here is graphite and watercolor on paper, but we must consider that these are being used to plan textiles, which would have a very different feel and function. A quilt is made through acts of cutting and joining - and what could be more basic to the experience of modern life? It's a highly tactile art, made from humble, homespun, or recycled fabrics. This connects it to the labor of women in the domestic sphere, where quilts have historically been made and used. It is important to consider that the drawing presents an idealized version of the quilt’s making, obscuring the labor required to bring a quilt to life. Through close attention to materials, making, and context, we can broaden our understanding of art, challenging the traditional distinction between fine art and craft.