Sewing in the 21st Century

So this past week saw me focusing on putting the finishing touches on my personal learning theory paper.  I have decided to work on researching how sewing/textiles are an integral part of a 21st Century education.  Begin by thinking about all the critical thinking and problem solving skills that are encompassed in the act of creating a product.  Now combine that with STEM education, supposedly an area where we (USA) are falling behind the rest of the world.  Science - chemical and biological agents make up ALL fabrics and textiles that are used in the world today.  Technology - well, most design is done through technology, all your knitted garments (tee shirts, tights, sportswear) are all created via huge computer driven machines. Engineering - well engineering is basically identifying a problem that exists in society and creating a solution to solve the problem, and then Mathematics - all of this exists through math.  But generally, don't we all need to know the sizes we wear, pattern making - all about the measurements.  But I seem to be on a soap box.

So for a break, I went to visit A Garden of Quilts show at Wheaton Arts on Sunday.  170 hand and machine made quilts were on display.  Some were done completely by hand, while others were stitched via machine. Fabulous computer guided machines were available for sale... a girl can dream... The work was amazing.  What really caught my eye were two quilts, both inspired by the civil war.
Since a picture is worth a 1000 words... The first:

This quilt:  Now it Can be Told (U.G. RR.)    by Barbara Jorden This quilt was inspired by the book Hidden in Plain View - basically a story how quilts guided run away slaves through the Underground Railroad.

HIDDEN IN PLAIN VIEW - Book cover printed on fabric and the quilter's write up of quilt.

The second quilt that was inspiring to me was this gorgeous piece.  Unfortunately the photo does not give me the quilters name - but it did win a first place award.  This was based on Civil War postcards that were found from veterans of both the Union and Confederate Armies.

I apologize for not getting the quilters name - but it is extremely intricate and designed beautifully.

So how do these quilts relate to the 21st Century - well, look at the skills that were needed to create these works of art.

Critical Thinking, Decision Making, Imagination, Creativity, Measuring just to name a few.

Thank you for putting up with my soapbox, but you did come to visit.

Speaking of visiting, make a trip to Wheaton Arts Village; you'll learn tons about South Jersey and the history behind it.