I think the densely quilted ones are designed more as wall hangings to be studied and as a piece of art, rather than used as a bed covering. Since they're so stiff, they'd not function very well as a snuggly lap or bed quilt. I think there are places for all types of quilting.
I've also seen the opposite. Quilts that should have been quilted more and lack definition. Not all quilts are made to be used as blankets and I envy the talent that goes into some of these wall hangings.