The Guiding Star
Object number2011.106.1
Artist
Ruth Ward
Date1995
Mediumcotton; polyester
Credit LineMuseum Purchase; Partial gift of Ruth Ward
DescriptionDecorative quilted wall hanging. Multicolored; some areas outlined in gold thread. Features outdoors scene: leafless trees on left and right sides. Green silhouette of people on left side; large star with rays at top right and bright colored area on bottom right. Purple & blue plastic star gems attached to background throughout. Label stitched to back side, bottom right.Dimensions44.5 x 67 in. (113 x 170.2 cm)Signed"RUTH WARD" on back side label.
MarksCloth label: in black ink, " "THE GUIDING STAR" / © 1995 / RUTH WARD, QUILTER / [in blue ink] 66 1/2 x 45" ".
Label TextPittsburgh quilter Ruth Ward, inspired by stories of the Underground Railroad, wanted to capture her thoughts and understanding about the history. She used the legend and metaphor of the North Star to capture this night scene of freedom seekers on the trail of freedom. An accomplished quilter, Ward teaches the craft and is a member of numerous quilting guilds.
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Ruth's Hat Shop
