About Us
14 years ago I visited the rural town of Whitley City, Kentucky to build homes for less fortunate families. Whitley sits in one of 400 counties designated part of Appalachia, a region known for extreme, persistent poverty most cannot imagine exists within America. During that trip I met Elva, one of the town’s very talented quilters, and left with a beautiful quilt and a deep desire to help.
Whitley Arts was founded in the fall of 2008 to connect the quilters and crafters in Appalachia with consumers who care about sustainability and design. All products are made of 100% cotton, many recycle vintage textiles, and all offer the opportunity to purchase a one-of-a-kind, distinctive gift. Each purchase benefits the local artisan and a non-profit providing educational programs to the children of Whitley City.
Meet Our Quilters
Novella was born and raised in the mining camps that dotted Kentucky. Her father discovered the name Novella while fighting in the Spanish American War. She has been quilting her entire life, and is the proud mother of six with twenty five grandchildren.
Freida recently returned to Kentucky to be near her mother, Novella. She is in her first year of retirement after 20 years traveling the States as a registered nurse. She and her husband Noah live in a renovated school house and receive frequent visits from their three children and four grandchildren.
Elva is pictured in her quilting room, built by volunteers from a local mission. Elva is legendary in Whitley City for her vibrant quilts, and is sought after each year by volunteer groups in town building homes. She was born and raised in Whitley and learned to quilt early out of necessity. She lives in the Hollow with her family, including two cows, four dogs, and several chickens.
Kristie is pictured center with the ladies of R-Debbie, the company she founded this year in Whitley City. R-Debbie specializes in handbags but also sews totes and pillows. To see more of their work, visit rdebbie.com.