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Pete McMartin: A disinterested husband falls in love with quilts
News2026-05-30

Pete McMartin: A disinterested husband falls in love with quilts

A chance visit to a quilt show turns into a surprising journey of discovery for a self-proclaimed non-sewer. A husband's weekend outing to the Boundary Bay Quilters Guild's quilt show at the South Delta Recreation Centre in Tsawwassen, BC, becomes an eye-opening experience.

Discovering the Art of Quilting

The writer, initially unenthusiastic about quilts, finds himself astounded by the variety and complexity of the quilts on display. He encounters quilts that are not just beautiful but also tell stories, evoke emotions, and push the boundaries of traditional quilting.

Some key highlights from the show include:

  • Quilts that rival murals in size and impact
  • Pieces that showcase a range of styles, from utilitarian to fine art
  • Examples of modern quilting, studio art quilts, and craftivist works

Dawn Fielden, vice-president of the Boundary Bay Quilters Guild, provides insight into the evolution of quilting as an art form. She notes that quilting has transformed over the last 50 years, with modern quilters drawing inspiration from various styles and using fabric as a medium for expression.