A new exhibition opening today at the International Quilt Study Center and Museum showcases the work of Ernest Haight, a famed Nebraska quiltmaker, farmer and engineer graduate from the University of Nebraska.
“The Engineer Who Could” opens June 7, and will examine the contributions Haight made toward innovating modern quilting practices early in the American quilt revival. Haight shared his timesaving quilting practices in demonstrations, exhibitions and letters sent across the United States. His ideas were also featured in his 1974 book, “Practical Machine-Quilting for the Homemaker.”
“These quilts help tell the Ernest Haight story that brings together rural family life, professional engineering skills and the development of quiltmaking in the 20th century,” said Jonathan Gregory, curator of the exhibition.
This exhibition will be the IQSCM’s first on Haight and his quilts. Gregory uncovered new information through interviews with Haight’s family, and in-depth study of the family’s collection of quilts, patterns, correspondence and other papers.
Haight was recognized for his contributions to quiltmaking methodology when he became an inaugural inductee to the Nebraska Quilters Hall of Fame in 1986.
“Ernest Haight’s quilts and his innovations demonstrate how a person can take their abilities, engineering and mechanical skills in his case, and apply them in surprising ways that are personally satisfying and a benefit to others,” Gregory said.
The exhibition’s opening will be held in conjunction with the June 7 First Friday. The museum will have extended hours from 4:30 to 7 p.m. and offer free admission, docent-guided tours of the gallery and a craft for children of all ages until 6 p.m.
For more information, go to http://www.quiltstudy.org.