San Jose Museum of Quilts and Textiles Tours and Activities

The small but fascinating San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles was founded in 1977 and was the first museum in the United States to be devoted to quilts and textiles as an art form. The museum's permanent collection includes over 550 quilts, garments and ethnic textiles, with an emphasis on the work from artists from the 20th and 21st centuries, and scholars of the subject will appreciate the research library which contains over 500 books on the history and techniques of the craft.Few people would be aware of how much work goes into a quilt, but this museum is very user-friendly and takes time to explain the craftsmanship that goes into each piece. If you take the time to examine the detail and choice of colours that go into making a quilt, you can't help being impressed. As well as quilts made by local Bay Area artists, the collection includes examples that hail from China and Southeast Asia, and it's interesting to see so many different patterns on display. Some quilts date back to the 19th century, while others are contemporary. If you compare the two, the differences are striking.As well as the preservation and education, the museum's other main remit is to celebrate the way the craft has become increasingly recognised as a valid art form from the second half of the 20th century onwards. As part of this aim, there are some contemporary works that have a clear political message, just as you would find in any contemporary art museum.The museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday, and closed on major public holidays. There is an admission fee to get in. The museum is located in the heart of downtown and is close to a light rail station.