The Quilts of Russell Barratt

Russell Barratt, a London textile artist, uses secondhand fabrics and repurposed used clothing to make quilted artworks that are colorful, bold and expressive. We were so excited to see several of his works at the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts & Fiber Arts!

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Timeline/Tempus Fugit (2021) by Russell Barratt (London, UK)

Russell Barratt's work is often inspired by memories of domestic life. The hues of the Nescafe advertisement are echoed in this modern hand-quilted composition. Notice the pants leg with its pocket placed horizontally at the top of the piece, above. It's fascinating to contemplate the selection of fabrics and how they are combined to create this contemporary piece. 

 Oh My Giddy Aunt! (2023) by Russell Barratt

Fitting the exhibit's theme of Wit/Whimsy, the title of this quilt - "Oh My Giddy Aunt" - is a British expression used to convey surprise, shock, or exasperation. It's a playful, old-fashioned exclamation, often used humorously to avoid stronger language.

The centerpiece of the quilt is a recycled shirt with the main parts removed, leaving just the seams, collar, and placket with buttons. We love the texture that is added by hand quilting stitches.  

Selfie (2020) by Russell Barratt  

Russell Barratt says that recycling is key to his practice.  There is so much to see here! The fronts of two shirts were used here, a baseball shirt and - to the right and underneath that - a more formal buttondown shirt, complete with buttons, and a digital fabric print of bananas. Additional touches include the cartoon panel used in the right border, and the giant polka dots that overlay the piece.  Scroll down for closeup photos! 

 

Image credits: Photos were taken by Quilt Inspiration at the Wit/Whimsy exhibit at the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts & Fiber Arts in July, 2025.