In Art & Design | By Fogo Island Inn | April 13, 2018

Let it All Hang Out

(UPDATED) On Sunday, May 6, 2018, residents of Fogo Island will let it all hang out (on the line) in celebration of the rich tradition of quilting. Quilting is an integral part of the culture of Fogo Island, and quilts made here are easily recognized by their vibrant and spontaneous array of patchwork, and hand-embroidered, decorative herringbone stitching. Emerging out of necessity and thrift, these quilts began as odds and ends from pieces of clothing that had run their course, and when combined with other patches became something utilitarian, but also something beautiful. Today, Fogo Islanders remain engrossed with the practice of quilting, not only for the product but also for the practice itself: friends and neighbours will often quilt together, turning the craft process into a social event. Every bed in the Fogo Island Inn is graced with a handmade quilt that changes with the seasons and has the name of the local quilter who crafted the piece sewn into it. Guests enamoured by the warmth and joy imparted by the Inn’s quilts are often found purchasing them through the Inn’s sister organization, Fogo Island Shop.

Organized by Fogo Island Inn, this one-day-only Spring Season hang out encourages all households to hang their quilts out on the clothesline together, creating a tapestry of colour and pattern for all to enjoy and celebrate. Community members are invited to select the best photographs of their favourite quilts hanging on a line and swaying in the breeze and email them to [email protected] for a chance to be entered into a draw to win a one-night stay at Fogo Island Inn. Architect Todd Saunders will be in residence at Fogo Island Inn for a special engagement weekend beginning May 18, 2018 and will select the lucky winner during the course of his residency.

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