The Southeastern Quilt and Textile Museum (SQTM) is proud to present Quilts Japan: The 17th Annual Quilt Nihon, on view March 21 through June 16, 2026. SQTM is the exclusive Southeast host for this internationally celebrated exhibition, which premieres at the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum before traveling to only a select number of venues worldwide.
In the United States, Quilts Japan will appear at just four museums, making its stop in Carrollton a rare and special opportunity for the community to experience one of the world’s most prestigious quilt exhibitions close to home.
The exhibition features extraordinary and innovative works selected from the biennial competition of the Japanese Handicraft Instructors’ Association (JHIA), which sponsors the largest and one of the most respected quilt competitions in Japan. Visitors will see award-winning and notable pieces, including works from the competition’s newest category, miniature quilts.
“This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime exhibition for our region,” said Amy Loch, Executive Director of the Southeastern Quilt and Textile Museum. “While the craftsmanship is world-class, the experience itself is unmatched. Visitors of all ages can be captivated by the beauty, detail, and storytelling
found in each quilt, whether they are seasoned textile enthusiasts or stepping into a quilt museum for the first time.”
For more than 50 years, JHIA has promoted handcrafted arts in Japan through education and instructor training in eight specialties, including quilting, knitting, embroidery, lace making, painting, weaving, leatherwork, and flower art. With more than 12,000 members and 7,000 certified quilt instructors, the organization is recognized internationally for advancing excellence in textile arts.
Though internationally renowned, Quilts Japan offers an engaging and accessible experience for everyone. The exhibition invites families, students, artists, and curious visitors of all ages to explore the precision, creativity, and cultural expression woven into each piece.
“Hosting Quilts Japan places SQTM on an international stage and reinforces that our museum is a vibrant, welcoming space for everyone,” said Melanie McClellan, Board Chair of the Southeastern Quilt and Textile Museum. “This exhibition invites curiosity, creativity, and connection across generations, and we are proud to offer this rare experience to our region.”
The Southeastern Quilt and Textile Museum is located at 306 Bradley Street in Carrollton, Georgia, and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Regular admission is $8, with discounts available. For more information about upcoming exhibits and programs, visit sqtmuseum.org.
