February 23, 2026
Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Stories in Pattern: Barn Quilt Creation Workshop with Rose Mapel Coming to Holdrege
Holdrege, Nebraska — March 14, 2026 — The Holdrege Area Public Library invites community members to explore creativity, history, and rural storytelling through a hands-on barn quilt workshop led by artist Rose Mapel. The workshop, Stories in Pattern: Barn Quilt Creation Workshop with Rose Mapel, will be held on Friday, March 14, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Holdrege City Auditorium.
This guided workshop will introduce participants to the rich tradition of barn quilts—painted quilt blocks displayed on barns and buildings that celebrate heritage, community identity, and personal stories. During the session, Mapel will lead participants through the history and cultural significance of barn quilts, basic design principles, pattern selection, and step-by-step painting techniques.
By the end of the workshop, each participant will complete their own barn quilt piece to take home, gaining both artistic skills and a deeper appreciation for this uniquely American folk art. The program is designed to be welcoming and accessible for beginners while still offering meaningful creative engagement for those with prior art experience.
This workshop is presented in partnership with Nebraska Public Media in celebration of America 250 and the PBS documentary The American Revolution: A Film by Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein & David Schmidt, and reflects the shared mission of public media organizations such as PBS and NPR to connect communities through storytelling, culture, and education.
Registration is limited to 25 participants. Community members interested in attending are encouraged to register early by calling or visiting the Holdrege Area Public Library.
This workshop is part of an ongoing effort to bring meaningful arts programming and cultural experiences to the Holdrege community.
Contact:
Alyssa Frerichs
Library Assistant II
Holdrege Area Public Library
Phone: (308) 995-6556