Kate Lenkowsky

In 2004, Indiana University Press made an extraordinary offer to me -- to submit a proposal for a book about quilts. I accepted the challenge, the publisher accepted the proposal, and I set out on a long but fascinating adventure. "Contemporary Quilt Art: An Introduction and Guide" was published in April, 2008. One year and two months later, "ForeWord Magazine," the only literary trade magazine devoted to the work of independent publishers, gave it their Gold Award in the Art Category of the 2008 Book of the Year Awards. My book won over publications submitted by the Metropolitan Museum, the Museum of Modern Art, and Rizzoli, NY. Quite an honor! Quilts have been around for a long time. Everybody, it seems, has a grannie or aunt who makes them. But contemporary artists make them, too, and these quilts are largely unknown. My book brings this art and many of the best makers to the public's attention. But there is more. Many of our friends, who live in NY, Washington, as well as the Midwest, love art but never thought of textiles or quilts in the context of art. Face to face with contemporary work, they often love what they see. Buying, however, remains a challenge. Where do you find it? Is it worth the money? "Contemporary Quilt Art" answers these questions head on. As a guide to the art form, it provides a history, profiles of some of the best artists in the field, an overview of educational resources and the market. The observations, ideas, and suggestions of collectors, museum curators, appraisers, gallery directors, art teachers and consultants, who are involved with quilt art on a daily basis, are shared with readers. Issues are discussed forthrightly. This book is a unique source book for lovers and collectors of art and textiles. It is, I hope, a spark that kindles interest. The artists need your support. In Spring, 2009, Surface Design Journal published my article "Art and Nature: Content in Australian Quilt Art." I am now preparing to teach my first course in the Textile Studies Department at Indiana University and, of course, am contemplating a new book proposal.