Mary Margaret Pettway guides UT Martin students in Storytelling Through Quilts class

(Photo Credit / Garden & Gun Magazine/Liz Bacon Photography)

For nearly three weeks, students at the University of Tennessee at Martin had a rare opportunity to learn from one of the nation’s most celebrated quilting traditions, guided by master quilter Mary Margaret Pettway.

From March 1 through March 20, Pettway served as the university’s first artist-in-residence, working closely with Henri Giles’ “Storytelling Through Quilts” class and leaving a lasting impression on both the campus and its students.

Pettway, who comes from Gee’s Bend, Ala., brings with her generations of artistic tradition. Gee’s Bend is a small, rural community widely recognized for its bold improvisational quilt designs and works that have been displayed in some of the most prestigious museums around the world. More than just functional pieces, these quilts are often described as visual stories reflecting history family and cultural identity.

At UT Martin, Pettway brought that same storytelling tradition into the classroom. Under her guidance, students, many of whom had little to no prior experience with quilting, began creating their own pieces from scratch. The class focused not only on the technical aspects of quilting such as stitching and pattern making, but also on the deeper meaning behind each piece.

Despite working with beginners, Pettway said the experience was nothing short of rewarding.

“I’ve had a ball since I’ve been here,” said Pettway. “These children are like children everywhere else. They don’t know that the interest may not be there at the start, but it’s a confidence builder.”

For Pettway, quilting is about more than just fabric and thread; it’s about repetition, discipline and growth. She emphasized how the repetitive nature of quilting helps strengthen memory and build confidence, especially for students trying something completely new.

“You’re doing whatever you’re doing repetitively and that helps with memory,” Pettway explained.

Her approach to teaching reflected a bigger philosophy that quilting is a life skill. Throughout her residency, Pettway encouraged students to see their work not just as art but as part of a larger toolkit they can carry into the future.

“I want everybody to have to take this class,” said Pettway. “You can never have too many skills because you don’t never know what you may have to do.”

Drawing from her own life experiences, Pettway connected quilting to real-world applications. She spoke about the various jobs she has held, from secretary to utility clerk, and how each role required different skills. In her view, quilting fits into that same category of practical knowledge.

“These are skills,” said Pettway. “That’s all this is: skill building.”

Beyond the classroom, Pettway’s presence marked a significant milestone for UT Martin. As the university’s first artist-in-residence, she set an example for future collaborations between visiting artists and students. Her residency not only introduced students to a unique art form, but it also connected them to a deep cultural history rooted in the American South.

Pettway remains deeply tied to her hometown of Gee’s Bend, where she still lives today. When asked if she would ever leave, she responded that she has no plans to go anywhere. Instead, she encourages others to visit and experience the community for themselves.

“What are you waiting on?” Pettway said with a smile when asked about traveling there.

Her pride in Gee’s Bend extends beyond her personal life. Pettway has played an active role in preserving and promoting the community’s quilting tradition. She serves as chair of the Souls Grown Deep Foundation board, an organization dedicated to supporting and recognizing African American artists from the South. Through her leadership and artistry, she continues to ensure that the legacy of Gee’s Bend’s quilts remain visible and celebrated.

By the end of her residency, students in the “Storytelling Through Quilts” class had not only created their own quilts but also gained a deeper appreciation for the cultural and historical significance behind the craft. Pettway’s influence extended beyond stitches and patterns; they learned patience, storytelling and the value of developing new skills.

Her time at UT Martin may have been brief, but its impact is expected to last for far longer. Through her teaching, storytelling and passion for quilting, Pettway helped students see art in a new way: not just as something to observe, but as something to create, practice and carry with them into their everyday lives.