Quilts, paintings and historical artifacts on display in July show
Resident Denise Munns has a special tie to Rappahannock Westminster-Canterbury’s art display for the month of July, “Resident Americana and Patriotic Artwork,” celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.
The exhibit includes quilts, paintings, photography and historical artifacts, as well as a variety of pillows and framed works collected and created by the RWC community. Highlights include a handmade quilt by Munns and wall hangings by Mary Jo Dranttel.
“I started thinking a few weeks ago that this is a special Fourth of July, and maybe we should do something patriotic in the gallery, and when I mentioned it to Amy (Hinson, Director of Life Enrichment), she took off with it,” Munns said.
Munns is an active member of the Northern Neck Patriotic Piecers, a group about 10-strong, which is a branch of the nonprofit Quilts of Valor Foundation (QOVF). Since 2019, the local group has sewn and awarded 80-plus quilts to veterans. “It’s very touching and a testimony to their experiences,” Munns said. “We set up a booth at farmers markets and grab anyone who looks like a veteran,” she said with a laugh.
Veterans hold a special place in her heart, as she served in the U.S. Air Force for 61/2 years during the Vietnam era, and was stationed at Clark Air Base during Operation Homecoming in the Philippines, where former POWs were sent for medical evaluations. Her husband, Ted, also served in the Philippines.
Her red, white and blue quilt will later be awarded to a veteran.
Another quilt in the display is owned by Anne Siler, who will be displaying a quilt sewn by her great-grandmother, Mary Lucinda Ellen Carter, who lived 1843-1925.
Other highlights include several pieces generously contributed by resident Francis Bacon, an avid collector of American art. Additionally, Peter and Helene Braatz have filled RWC’s curio cabinet with fascinating items representing the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, the Civil War and World War I.
There is truly something for everyone, and RWC is confident the display will spark interest and appreciation.
Residents and community members are invited to view the art exhibition from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily throughout July at Rappahannock Westminster-Canterbury, 132 Lancaster Drive in Irvington.
