Radical Elements

May 20, 2015 - October 19, 2015

National Academy of Sciences, 2101 Constitution Ave., N.W.

Photo ID required. No charge.

Organized by Studio Art Quilt Associates, Inc., this exhibition features 40 contemporary art quilts, each inspired by a different element from the periodic table. The artworks, relating to the elements in unique and witty ways, take quilting beyond the usual materials of fabric and thread. Materials used range from duct tape and aluminum foil to keyboard keys and dining utensils.

Curator Jill Rumoshosky Werner writes, "In a relatively short period of time, the field of art quilting ha[s] undergone a fundamental change. The primary focus ha[s] shifted from decorating the surface of a quilted wall hanging to a much broader acceptance of ideas, styles, and materials." It is her hope that this exhibition will expand perceptions and possibilities for both the viewing public and for future artists.

Studio Art Quilt Associates, Inc., (www.saqa.com) is an international non-profit organization dedicated to informing the public about the continuing achievements of the art quilt movement. SAQA's 3,300 members include artists, collectors, curators, art dealers and corporate sponsors. Since its founding more than 25 years ago, SAQA has mounted juried exhibitions featuring the work of artist members at museums and galleries throughout the world.

Pictured: Regina V. Benson, We Can See it Now, 2013, 36 x 22 inches

Materials: Recycled digital keyboard keys, acetate, paint, wire, tubing, cording, thread, polyester and cotton fabrics, felt as batting, partial interior metal frame. Stitched, appliqued, layered, burned, painted.