LA GRANGE — Two groundbreaking exhibits of quilts will be on display at the Texas Quilt Museum through December 23.

First, we’ll pay tribute to the wildly popular series of books by James Herriot as well as the recent smash PBS series with the animal-themed juried show “All Creatures Great and Small.” And we’ll also dip into the amazing archives of quilt collectors and dealers Mary and Joe Koval with “Antique Quilts from the Koval Collection.”

All Creatures Great and Small

James Herriot was the pen name for the real-life British country veterinary surgeon James Wight (1916-1995). He wrote a series of best-selling books about his experiences in the field, as well as short stories for adults and children. They’ve been adapted into several TV shows and films, including the most recent All Creature Great and Small series that began in 2020 and runs on PBS in the United States.

The Museum put out a call for quilts inspired by the theme in this juried show, with 59 works chosen.

“These quilts run the gamut of animals portrayed and loved,” says Vicki Mangum, Museum Curator. “You will enjoy the many cats and dogs, as well the infamous Texas Horny Toad Lizard. Look for swans, butterflies, and even a mouse. There are also quilts on endangered species that will raise your awareness to their plight.”
Antique Quilts from the Koval Collection

Mary and Joe Koval are longtime quilt collectors, dealers, and experts. The Museum is also fortunate to house the permanent Koval Antique Textile Collection. Now comes this showcase of 15 works which include some of their best antique quilts gathered over the decades. They were chosen by the Kovals themselves.

“When viewing these quilts, I am reminded of what attracted me to quilts in the first place—the sheer beauty of workmanship and fabric selections,” Museum Curator Vicki Mangum offers. “The two go hand-in-hand with this antique collection. Museum visitors will definitely enjoy seeing what Mary and Joe Koval have kept in their private collection after years of selling antique quilts.”

The Texas Quilt Museum is located at 140 West Colorado in La Grange, Texas, 78945. Visit their website for more information at www.texasquiltmuseum.org.