SOLD
A quilt by Joe Cunningham
71" x 71"
From my series of quilts based on traditional quilt pattern names, New York Beauty is a magnified set of the spiky points of which the original pattern is composed. Instead of a grid work where each square contains four spiky arcs, this version has only one set, and these are cut and sewn freehand.
My idea was to simply use these highly contrasting fabrics to create the curved line down the middle, but as I worked I saw that I could incorporate the black and white dotted fabric as well, and then add the black and white bias strips for even more visual interest.
Years later I heard one of my students explain to another, “Yes, of course it’s New York, you can see the Chrysler building in the spikes, Central Park on the left, the chaos of the streets on the right—it all fits!”
The freemotion quilting took weeks, as I had to follow each shape and create a little floral detail in every one.
The quilt, signed by Joe in the lower right corner of the quilting, comes with a four-inch hanging sleeve, Certificate of Authenticity, and a custom cotton bag. Shipping and insurance are free to a domestic US address.
Joe Cunningham is an internationally known quilt artist, writer, teacher and lecturer. His quilts have been shown worldwide and are represented in the collections of major museums. He lives in San Francisco, working in his gallery/studio in the South of Market district.