In the late 19th century, a distinctive new quilting style emerged: the crazy quilt. Composed from hundreds of irregularly cut shapes and intricate patterned embroidery, crazy quilts showcased the skill, creativity, and ingenuity of their makers, often while incorporating unique family and community histories into their designs.

The crazy quilt also signaled important shifts in American textile consumption. The widespread availability of inexpensive cotton and wool fabrics, along with the rise of a domestic silk making industry, put unprecedented quantities of textiles within reach of middle-class households across the country. “Artistry and Abundance” features a selection of crazy quilts from Mia’s collection. Together, these quilts showcase the vibrancy of the form while exploring its origin.