Teacher Resource

Patterns in Abstraction: Black Quilts from the High’s Collection

“The door has been opened. A new day of inclusiveness has arrived. Black women quilters can hold their own in the world of abstraction using fabric, needles, and thread. Let them in. Let them be free to express their creativity without rules and constraints. Consider them abstractionists in the true sense of the word, and keep them moving forward—appreciated and acknowledged.” —Marquetta Johnson, Quilter and Teaching Artist, High Museum of Art

This collection-based exhibition is the first to bring a number of the High’s quilts together to answer a major question: “How can quilts made by Black women change the way we tell the history of abstract art?” Use these images and the corresponding teacher resource to explore the High Museum of Art’s special exhibition, Patterns in Abstraction: Black Quilts from the High’s Collection, open to visitors from June 28, 2024 to January 5, 2025, with your students.