I think quilting has exploded recently because of how "quilt" is now defined. It used to be that a quilt was a blanket that was used on a bed. Now, if something has fabric in it, it is called a quilt. Many of the art quilts that I've seen are so far from the "blanket" definition, it sometimes defies logic to call them quilts. (Just my opinion). I am fairly traditional in my quilts. I make some bed quilts (yes, I do use them as blankets) to wall quilts that don't resemble art at all...just a small quilt. Most of the art quilts I have seen are very, very impressive, but I would not try to make one. Just don't have the "art" streak in these old bones. (Been quilting for about 15+ years now and favorite technique is paper piecing).
Anita