Major show of African American quilts opening at BAMPFA despite federal funding cuts

BAMPFA will launch "Routed West: Twentieth-Century African American Quilts in California" on June 8, 2025, showcasing the largest collection of African American quilts, which Eli Leon bequeathed to the museum. This exhibition is the first of its kind at BAMPFA, highlighting the importance of these quilts, which now represent nearly one-fifth of the museum's holdings. Dr. Elaine Yau, who oversees the project, focuses on migration as a central theme, revealing that many quiltmakers migrated to the West during the Second Great Migration. The exhibition features renowned artists, including Laverne Brackens and Rosie Lee Tompkins, whose works are pivotal in the quiltmaking narrative.

Despite recent cuts to federal funding for quilt conservation, BAMPFA is dedicated to preserving this cultural heritage. The collection includes over 500 quilts by Tompkins, many of which are rarely seen. The exhibition also celebrates contemporary contributions from local quilt artists, emphasizing the enduring legacy of African American quilting traditions. This initiative aims to educate audiences about the historical and cultural significance of these quilts while promoting community engagement.