Entry Number: 171
Quilt Maker: Benjamin Evans
Quilted By: Quilted by Machine (Domestic or Longarm) - Computer / Pantograph Guided: Benjamin Evans
Techniques: Pieced, Appliqué by Machine
Design Source: Underground Railroad Sampler by Eleanor Burns
Artist Statement
I began sewing as a small boy using an antique Singer machine to make little cushions for my Star Wars people. Largely self-taught, over the years I have endeavored to make a wide variety of fabric crafts and garments. I took my first quilting class in 2014. Although I favour making traditional quilts using precise patterns, I have pushed myself to try using more modern colours and techniques, including raw edge appliqué and improvisational curved piecing. Typically drawn to more masculine prints, any green or purple fabric, or one with moustaches on it, makes me exceedingly happy.
I first saw Underground Railroad quilts while attending the European Patchwork Festival in France in 2016. Using the "Underground Railroad Sampler" book by Eleanor Burns, a small group of us created our own block of the month club and completed various quilts. It was important for me to follow the pattern as closely as possible, although I substituted green fabric for the recommended blue. This was my first introduction to Ms. Burns, and I have subsequently purchased several of her books. The quilt honours all those men and women who triumphed over unimaginable circumstances and made their way to freedom. The name of the quilt honours my favourite Christian rock band, Petra.
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