I would like to add to Chele's comments about the Gee's Bend quilts. They were displayed around the U.S. in various Art Museums as an Expression of Art. Traditional, contemporary and art quilt makers flocked in huge numbers to see them as well as the usual art museum goers.
Each of these groups would view them with a different perspective based on their background. I consider myself an eclectic quilter since I do work in traditional, contemporary and art styles and admire the talented people in each field.
When I saw the traveling exhibit in Boston it appealed to all my senses and feelings about quilting! I think it was and is one of the bridges that can help us feel part of an ever widening group of people who have a common thread (no pun intended!). My hope is that it leads us to better understand and appreciate the common and unique abilities of each other through the message of a quilt.