The introduction and definitive guide to the work of celebrated folk artist Yvonne Wells, whose vibrant, innovative story quilts address an array of historic, cultural, and religious themes

The Story Quilts of Yvonne Wellsis an introduction and definitive guide to the self-taught quilter whose expansive body of work serves as testament to the sweeping tides of American life and Wellss significance as a major figure within the folk art and art world writ large.

Beginning when she was nearly 40 years old and without formal training, Wells created her first quilt for practical use but was soon hand stitching appliqu figures into bold, original designs that unleashed her voice as a storyteller. Incorporating a wide variety of symbolic materials and unconventional objectsanything I can stick a needle inWellss vivid story quilts reveal a fearless and encyclopedic vision ranging from the intimately autobiographical to iconic scenes from African American history, the Bible, Southern culture, and contemporary headlines.

The result of years of close collaboration between Stacy I. Morgan and Wells herself,The Story Quilts of Yvonne Wellsis richly illustrated with more than 100 quilts accompanied by narratives about each, told in the artist’s own words, and interspersed with in-depth essays documenting Wellss unique artistic practice and creative journey during her five-decade art career.