Saturday I drove to Long Beach, CA for the International Quilt Show. I thought I could use some inspiration and looking at all the beautiful quilts should help. They were so beautiful, just gorgeous pieces of art, each one. But, instead of being inspired I was intimitated, how on earth could I ever even attempt such a quilt??? and for that matter how long would it take?? Ye gads, I must be making rags compared to those fab quilts. Any way, I did spend some money on some cute fabrics pieces and some tools and stuff. I took the coast highway home to contemplate the day and decided I would not aspire to be a quilt artist, but will enjoy the time I get to put together some beautiful fabrics. long sigh. :)

I feel the same way...I am not a "quilt artist"...I tend to do very traditional quilt patterns. I don't feel the need to compete with those super achiever quilters who win the ribbons. To me a quilt is something to be used and enjoyed, and that's what I make. I appreciate the work that goes into the art quilts, and I admire them for their creativity. Just not my "gig"!! :-)

I do not create those art type of quilts either. I love making quilts which will be used, snuggled under, loved. Sounds like you will as well (smile).

Now that you mentioned it, as beautiful as they are, it would be a little difficult to snuggle in one of those. All that quilting makes them not so soft. Thanks!

Everytime I feel like I am getting to a new higher level of quilting .. those big International Shows are very humbling.
But I do come away with new inspiration ... and they always push me to venture out. The biggest thing that always just grabs me is the colors .. oh the colors. Seeing all those just fabulous quilts has pushed me to be much more adventuresome in colors.
There has been some significant feedback to the organizers to reduce the predomance of art quilts and increase the number of more traditional quilts.

I posted pics of a local quilt show a few days ago. It's under Prairiefest quilt show, Oswego IL. 2011.
For inspiration.......look under search

I feel the same way. In fact, I have deliberately not attended quilt shows because I thought I would be intimidated by the quilts. I love what I am learning from my classes at my LQS and I love making my quilts. I especially love giving them away to family and friends.

My sentiments exactly.

The first thing I consider when I attend these shows is that most but not all of the people who enter these contests are professional quilters and do it as a fulltime job. I work a full time job and take care of my home. I only have a few hours a week to devote to quilting. Now, I could spend three years on one fabulous over the top quilt that no one will want to touch or I could make a dozen happy fun quilts that are loved and used. these quilts are very beautiful and I appreciate the hard work and devotion that is in them. I just have to be realistic. I do aspire to one day make a quilt that is contest worthy. That is what drives me to improve my skills all the time even if it would never be entered in a contest. I simply view the shows like going to an art gallery and if something inspires me, great.

Each & every quilt is a work of art! Just think of all who do not quilt, & are clueless about even trying. Quilting is for our souls, much better than therapy, & more affordable. Quilt shows are for inspiration, &, admiration. Don't let those fabulous quilts get you down, just go back home & work on your own works of art, & enjoy the journey! I love quilt shows, but must admit, I go to shop more than drool over the quilts in the show, lol.....