WATSONVILLE — The annual Pajaro Valley Quilt Show returns to the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Feb. 23 and 24, showcasing more than 300 quilts as well as clothing, purses, dolls, pincushions and more.
Sandy Helin, a member of the Pajaro Valley Quilt Association’s quilt show committee, says that even people who had no prior knowledge or even interest in quilts often come away from the show with a great appreciation.
“The show goes far beyond what you’d expect from a quilt,” Helin said. “There really is something for everyone to enjoy.”
The show, now in its 41st year, will once again host a live quilt auction on Feb. 24 at 12:30 p.m., auctioning off around 45 pieces. Also scheduled is a fashion show on Feb. 23 at 12:30 p.m., as well as live demonstrations, Bed Turnings and raffles both days. A special “Eye Spy” contest for kids will also be held throughout the weekend.
Quilts featured at the show range from traditional designs to more modern styles, sizes and various types of fabric. There are also art quilts, many making social statements and other with humor woven throughout.
Helin said that modern quilt making is firmly in the realm of art. Particularly in the past decade, young artists have taken up quilting to create incredibly bold and unique pieces.
“I’m more of a traditionalist myself,” Helin said. “But what I love about this show is how there is such variety. It opens my mind to how many possibilities are out there.”
This year’s featured artist is award-winning Bay Area textile artist Sujata Shaw. Originally from India, Sujata takes much of her inspiration from the colors, shapes and textures that occur in the folk art from her native country. Sujata will give a presentation on Feb. 23 at 2 p.m., and a collection of her quilts will be on display.
“I am personally very excited in hearing her program and seeing her work up close,” Helin said.
As always, the show will feature an Opportunity Quilt, this year by renowned textile and beach artist Thom Atkins. Guests can purchase a chance to win this quilt before closing on Feb. 24.
Many items will be for sale both days at the Merchant Mall — with more than 30 vendors from across California selling items such as fabric and pattern kits, books, sewing machines and more. The popular Bargain Garden will be stocked with pre-owned fabrics, hundreds of publications and a unique assortment of other sewing-related items.
Helin, who will be displaying a couple of her own quilts — including one created with a fabric made from feed sacks — hopes that people who attend the show will be inspired by the unique art form.
“It’s just a really rich experience,” she said.
•••
The PV Quilt Show will be open on Saturday, Feb. 23 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake Ave., Watsonville. Tickets are $10 at the door and $8 in advance. Parking is free. For information and for a list of places to pre-order tickets, visit pvqa.org.
