By Jamie Martin
Members of the Arkansas Extension Homemakers Council are receiving national attention as their handmade textile pieces are featured in a museum exhibit honoring American heritage.
The “America 250 Common Threads” exhibit at Crystal Bridges Museum highlights 250 years of cultural and artistic history. Two creations from EHC members were selected, including a quilt and a crochet doily.
Anna Goff shared that her late mother Ann Prince would have been proud to see her work displayed. Prince spent nearly seven decades developing her sewing skills and sharing them with others.
“Everyone who knows anything about her has said this is something that she would have been so very proud of — to be able to see her work displayed in a museum,” said Goff.
The selected quilt was part of a community effort to create handmade items for veterans. It reflects both personal dedication and community service. Prince was actively involved in multiple EHC groups and helped teach quilting skills.
The second featured piece, created by Erin Holder, is a handcrafted crochet doily. Holder used a family heirloom crochet hook, adding deeper meaning to her work. The piece was first entered in a local fair before being selected for the exhibit.
The exhibit opportunity was shared with EHC members through extension networks. After submissions were reviewed, museum staff selected two pieces for display.
“When Ayanna heard about the Common Threads exhibit, she thought of the handcrafted items that are made by extension program participants, including EHC members,” said Laura Hendrix, extension professor of personal finance and EHC adviser for the Division of Agriculture. “We sent out a call for proposals to EHC club members to submit items for the exhibit, and Crystal Bridges staff selected two pieces.”
EHC has a strong tradition of community service and skill-building. Members continue to create items for hospitals, veterans, and care facilities while also teaching others.
The exhibit demonstrates how traditional skills can continue to play an important role in modern communities. It also shows the value of passing knowledge between generations.
In addition to showcasing creativity, the exhibit encourages community engagement. EHC provides opportunities for adults to learn, connect, and contribute to local development.
Visitors to the exhibit can explore how handmade art reflects history, culture, and community spirit. The display celebrates the lasting impact of grassroots organizations like EHC.
Photo Credit: AEHC
Categories: National