Photo courtesy city of Peoria

The West Valley Art Museum (WVAM) Art Gallery is currently presenting a unique and colorful exhibit titled “Quilts That Tell A Story.” This vibrant display, showcasing over 40 fiber art quilts, will be open to the public through the end of January.

This exhibition brings together an array of quilts created by local, regional, and nationally recognized artists. Each quilt is not just a piece of art, it is a narrative, encapsulating stories that resonate profoundly throughout the community. The diverse collection highlights the richness of fiber art and its ability to convey compelling tales through patterns, colors, and textures.

Among the standout pieces is the Bicentennial Quilt, crafted by local Sun City residents in 1976. This quilt embodies the community’s spirit and patriotism. Clubs and organizations in Sun City at that time each contributed a square to one side of the quilt, while the other side was adorned with hand-sewn patriotic symbols. The quilt, first revealed during the July 4, 1976, celebration, has only been publicly displayed six times, making its appearance at WVAM a rare opportunity for enthusiasts and historians alike.

In addition to the Bicentennial Quilt, the exhibition also includes several traditional hand-made quilts from WVAM’s permanent art collection. These pieces represent an earlier era and are a testament to the enduring artistry and craftsmanship of quilt-making.

The WVAM Art Gallery, located on the first floor of Peoria City Hall at 8401 W. Monroe St., welcomes visitors on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on Thursdays from noon to 6 p.m. This exhibition offers a unique blend of art, history, and community storytelling, making it an ideal destination for art lovers and history buffs alike.

For more information, visit wvam.org.