Handicrafts and fine art don’t normally go together in my mind. My grandmother was a great quilter, yet I have never associated her traditional needlework as fine art. If you are like me in this thinking, think again.
The Dayton Art Institute is closing a months long exhibition centered on Grandma Moses. American Sampler: Grandma Moses and the Handicraft Tradition closes on February 21 and you don’t want to miss it.
Grandma Moses, Anna Mary Robertson Moses (1860–1961), was a lifelong professional seamstress until she begin creating works of art late in life at age 78. A sample of more than 50 of her pieces are on display. Her work covers a variety of mediums including paintings, embroideries, a quilt and other handmade items.
The entire exhibit pays homage to other artists and handicraft works. A tapesty sampler from England that dates to 1675 makes the modest fee worth it. Just feet away hangs a Grandma Moses quilt that was reminiscent of my own grandma’s quilting style.
Grandma Moses and Woldemer Neufelds paintings of rolling hills beyond small midwestern towns tell a story. The paintings are a view into American life 60, 70 or 80 years ago. I found myself moving back and forth between the two comparing styles. Both Moses and Neufeld lend their brush to depicting rural Ohio.
Checkered House is one of her paintings on display. Grandma Moses shares personal stories about this home that has been part of her family in New York for more than 200 years. The personal nature of her work and its approachability makes this art exhibition one appealing to the entire family.
Organized by The Dayton Art Institute and curated by Dr. Aimee Marcereau DeGalan, Chief Curator, Curator of European Art, American Sampler is on until February 21, 2016.
Exhibition Admission
Museum Members: Free
Adults: $14
Seniors (60+): $11
Students (18+ w/ID): $11
Active Military: $11
Groups (10 or more): $11
Youth (ages 7-17): $6
Children (6 & under): Free
Advance tickets can be purchased at etix.com
Prices include admission to the exhibition and the museum’s permanent collection.
