Quilts4DC - DC Statehood Quilt Challenge
This summer, be part of the great legacy of American quilt‐making as a means of patriotic expression. The Quilts4DC Challenge asks quilters everywhere to share their creativity and lift the message of full representation and voting rights for fellow Americans residing in Washington, DC. Did you know that Washington, DC, has more than 700,000 residents, home to more people than either Vermont or Wyoming? Unlike Americans in the 50 states, DC citizens do not have voting representation in Congress, control of their local budgets and laws, nor input into judicial appointments. Yet these fellow Americans have all the full obligations of citizenship. Most Americans think the slogan “Taxation without Representation is Tyranny” was put to rest in 1776, yet 245 years later, this aptly describes the status of citizens who live in Washington, DC.
DC is a vibrant region with beautiful parks, lively neighborhoods, cultural activities, historic sites, and diverse houses of worship. European settlement of the area began more than 400 years ago when John Smith sailed up the Potomac River and encountered the indigenous Nacotchtank people. Since its founding as a federal district in 1790, DC citizenry has included a vibrant African American community, indigenous peoples, and descendants from every wave of immigration into the United States, creating a dynamic, diverse, and culturally inclusive community.
This is an exciting time for DC residents as this year the House of Representatives voted to make Washington, DC the 51st State, to be called Washington, Douglass Commonwealth (DC). This is exciting for all Americans, as this will be the first time a new state joins the Union since Alaska and Hawaii joined in 1959. Awarding statehood is awaiting approval by the U.S. Senate.
How Will This Work?
Quilters are invited to create one or more quilts inspired by the theme of DC Statehood. Completed works can be submitted to be part of an online quilt exhibition and selected works have the opportunity to become part of one or more in‐person exhibitions.
Submissions must meet the definition of a quilt (3 layers—top, batting, and back secured together by quilting, tying, or embroidery) with a finished edge. (Quilted objects, items, or garments are not acceptable.) Use the style of your choice (traditional, modern, improv, etc.). Other requirements include:
Maximum size = 96 in. in circumference, with no side (side‐to‐side, top‐to‐bottom, or circle diameter) longer than 36 in. Examples sizes include 24 in. x 24 in., 12 in. x 36 in., or 36 in. x 12 in.
Minimum size = 8 in. x 12 in.
Any shape (e.g., square, rectangular, round, wonky) is acceptable as long as it can be readily hung on a wall.
Use any pattern or design whether original, free, or commercial with acknowledgement of the source.
Inspiration based on imagery, photographs, murals, artwork, or any creation of others must have the maker’s permission for use.
Quilts must be completed and submitted online (no fee) by September 30, 2021. Enter as many quilts as you like, there is no limit!
How To Participate
Join the Quilts 4 DC Facebook Group to find inspiration, collaborate and share your work. Follow us on Instagram (Quilts4DC) or Twitter (@Quilts4DC); when posting, please reference #Quilts4DC. Detailed submission instructions and technical specifications for on‐line show will be released in August. Submit any questions to quilts4dc@gmail.com or via the Quilts 4 DC Facebook Group.
Timeline
For more information and inspiration, click here.
Ready, Set, … SEW!!
Quilts4DC is organized by quilters in the DC region in association with The League of Women Voters of The District of Columbia, a non-partisan 501(c)3 For more information contact us at Quilts4DC@gmail.com