20 March 2021 - 19 September 2021

This exhibition will celebrate the quilting traditions of northern England by showcasing historical and contemporary quilts that are among the finest examples of the craft acquired by the Museum in the last 20 years. 

North Country quilts have been made throughout the region for over 200 years, with characteristics including patterns being stitched through the layers, subtly creating softly sculptured surfaces.  

Contemporary textile artists now reference this tradition within their work, which will be reflected in the exhibition. 

Other examples will include a 19th century strippy quilt made by Hannah Hauxwell’s grandmother, wholecloth, pieced and chintz quilts as well as coverlets and much more. 

Curated by Joanna Hashagen, The Bowes Museum's Curator of Fashion and Textiles, and Dorothy Osler, Author and Exhibition Consultant, the exhibition will be accompanied by a catalogue.