MUSIC MOVES MOVEMENTS
SPECIAL EXHIBIT ENTRY
OUR THEME
From the fields where spirituals were whispered in defiance, to the streets where freedom anthems echoed in unison, music has always been the heartbeat of social justice movements. Music Moves Movements is a quilt exhibit that explores the deep connection between song and struggle, harmony and hope. Each quilt in this collection honors the melodies that carried generations through hardship, inspired courage, and unified voices for change.
Music does more than entertain—it mobilizes, empowers, and remembers. These quilts highlight how songs became tools of resistance and symbols of solidarity, embedding sound into the fabric of social justice.
Examples of Songs and Movements Represented: (This list is not exhaustive).
• Abolition & the Underground Railroad: “Follow the Drinking Gourd” – a coded spiritual guiding enslaved people toward freedom.
• Civil Rights Movement (1950s–60s): “We Shall Overcome” – the anthem of marches, sit-ins, and rallies across the South.
• Labor Movement: “Solidarity Forever” – sung by striking workers demanding dignity and fair wages.
• Anti-Apartheid Struggle in South Africa: “Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika” – a hymn of resistance later adopted as part of the national anthem.
• Vietnam War Protests (1960s–70s): “Give Peace a Chance” – John Lennon’s rallying cry for peace.
• Black Lives Matter Movement: “Alright” by Kendrick Lamar – a modern anthem of resilience and protest.
• Women’s Rights Movement: “Bread and Roses” – sung in labor strikes and feminist gatherings as a call for justice and equality.
Through fabric, color, and stitch, these quilts embody the spirit of the songs that have moved mountains and movements alike. Just as a chorus gains power when voices join together, these quilts collectively remind us that music continues to inspire the fight for justice.
QUILT SUBMISSION DETAILS
Your submission must meet the definition of a fiber quilt. It must have 3 layers (top, batting and back) held together with stitching.
Your quilt should depict an individual song or a scene from a social justice movement.
Your quilt should be no larger than 60 inches wide and 72 inches long. Your quilt must have a label and a four-inch sleeve on the back. Also attach a temporary label on the back that includes your name, address, phone number and email.
Give your quilt a name. Describe in succinct detail what your quilt is about. Include the name of the song, the social justice movement and their interaction.
All techniques welcome. Embellishments must be securely attached to the quilt and be able to withstand normal handling of installation and shipping.
Your quilt must be delivered to the Atlanta Quilt Festival by June 1, 2026 and be available for display and return shipping until September 15, 2026. Early return delivery is not allowed.
The exhibit may travel in 2027. If the exhibit travels, you will be asked to sign a loan agreement if you want to participate in the traveling exhibit.
Take some time with the title and the story behind your quilt. Do some research. Acceptance will be based on the beauty of your quilt, the story behind it and compliance with the theme. We strive for diversity in the exhibit. Dig deep and do not settle for the obvious. Historical movements that did not take place in the United States are acceptable Do your best work and do not wait until the last minute.
Do not send your quilt to the Atlanta Quilt Festival before you have been notified that it is accepted. If your quilt is accepted, deliver to: Atlanta Quilt Festival, 505 Stonebriar Way SW, South Fulton, GA 30331 no later than July 1, 2026.
There is no entry fee for this exhibit. Submit online at atlantaquiltfestival.com under the enter your quilt tab after February 1, 2026.
Deadline for entry is June 1. Please submit as soon as possible between February 1 and June 1, 2026.
If you cannot enter online, submit your quilt via email after February 1st, send a photo with the title, dimensions, techniques, and story/description of your quilt to ov.brantley@atlantaquiltfestival.com.
These quilts are not part of the juried exhibit or the Best of Show voting.