Hope Blossoms
Marquetta Johnson (American, 1955–2025)
Details
Title
Hope Blossoms
Artist/Maker
Marquetta Johnson (American, 1955–2025)
Date
2009
Medium
Hand-dyed and hand-painted cotton fabric with buttons and beads
Dimensions
43 x 57 inches
Credit
Gift of the artist
Accession #
2022.205
The vibrant floral arrangement at the center of this quilt is a tribute to the countless bouquets Johnson received, giving her “hope for a better moment next time, a better tomorrow, even a better next year.” The flowers extending beyond the border of the quilt’s improvisational frame capture the abundant hopefulness and resilience that drove Johnson’s art and life. When Johnson passed away in early 2025, several of her loved ones noted how she embodied her favorite flower, the sunflower, by always bending toward the light.
Image Copyright
© Marquetta Johnson