This triple star block is made of original fabrics screen-printed by myself and are original works of art in themselves. This quilt finishes at approximately 14x40. Made with 100% cotton fabrics, cotton batting and machine quilted and bound for longevity. Could be used as a wall hanging or table-top decoration. The back of all of the show quilts from Southern Charm are backed in a 100+ year old damask tablecloth. I received the tablecloth from an estate sale and it came with a lovely note and I wanted to preserve it further. Made in 2023.

Southern Charm, at Awaken Coffee, June 2023

After listening to Dolly Parton’s America, the initial idea of this project, Southern Charm, has grown to be so much deeper and more meaningful. Learning about the way she has evolved as an artist and grown as an independent woman while staying tied to her beautiful, mountain childhood resonated with me. I want these things to be true for myself, as well.

As I mature and unfold as a female artist, I’ve recently started looking back at my childhood in Waynesville, NC to rediscover my favorite things again; like Easter, pastels, ruffles, playing in the woods etc. A couple of similarities between Dolly and I stand out: home, comfort, inclusion and nostalgia.

This show is about channeling your inner child, listening to your heart and setting aside what doesn’t work for you any longer to continue on through hope, love and joy.

“Songwriting [Quilt-making] is my way of channeling my feelings and my thoughts. Not just mine, but the things I see, the people I care about. My head would explode if I didn’t get some of that stuff out.” Dolly Parton [Melissa Everett]