Activities are gaining momentum as the season progresses. I had a lovely visit with the Jewel Box Quilters in Grinnell, Iowa last week. The guild gets its name for a stunning little bank designed by Louis Sullivan, noted architect and mentor of Frank Lloyd Wright.
The Merchants National Bank is indeed a “jewel box”situated in the modest business district . It is a small square building ornamented with Sullivan’s distinctive designs.
You can see that I would love Sullivan ornamentation. We both are inspired by prairie plants and have an affinity for similar shapes and symmetrical design.
The building combines strength in its structure and ethereal elegance in its ornament.
Sullivan’s language of pattern is eccentric, mysterious and totally unique. Visiting this little “Gem” was the icing on the cake for this quilting journey. Thanks to the Jewel Box guild for a friendly and productive visit!
This week will be occupied preparing for Spring Market in May. I have completed six medium sized quilt tops so far and can’t wait for the day I can post them for you… just a few more weeks.
So many inspirational details. I love those unexpected spirals in the tile work.
WOW! Came across Sullivan before- but only seen black and white photos of one of his buildings, which really do not do him justice. Fabulous doorway- and the stained glass…yum,yum.