CF Appleton Museum of Art to present handcrafted pinecone quilts

“Pinecone Baby Quilt, Quilt (You Are My Sunshine),” 2022, Betty Ford-Smith (American, b. 1951), fabric, 40×40 in., on loan from the artist. [Photo courtesy Appleton Museum of Art]

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Posted August 19, 2025 | Staff report

“Under the Cover of Knowledge: Betty Ford-Smith’s Pinecone Quilts” will be on view from Sept. 6 through Feb. 22 at The Appleton Museum of Art, College of Central Florida.

This marks the first major solo exhibition of Ford-Smith’s work. Her quilts have been collected nationwide and by major institutions like the Smithsonian American Art Museum.

Ford-Smith’s quilts are striking, contemporary interpretations of the traditional pinecone quilt—a form rooted in African American quilting practices dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Created by hand, each piece can take more than six months to complete and can weigh more than 30 pounds, the news release noted.

“Beginning with a small square at the center, Ford-Smith builds outward in hypnotic spirals using more than 4,000 hand-cut, folded cotton triangles, a process that evokes celestial orbits and the rhythms of nature. Beyond the studio, she continues to deepen her practice by sharing knowledge, mentoring beginners and connecting with fellow quilters across the Southeast and beyond,” the release stated.

“The Appleton is honored to highlight such an amazing Florida artist. Betty is as vibrant and life affirming as the pinecone quilts she creates,” said Jason Steuber, museum director, in the release. “The artistic pinecone quilts draw you in while you become spellbound by their colors and fine handmade craft.”

In “Under the Cover of Knowledge,” Ford-Smith’s quilts will be presented alongside antique examples, Gee’s Bend quilts and related artworks.

Regular admission fees apply to visit the museum and admission is free on the first Saturday of each month as part of the Free First Saturday program.

To learn more, go to appletonmuseum.org