Candis Pettway facts for kids
Candis Mosely Pettway (born November 25, 1924 – died May 22, 1997) was an American artist known for her beautiful quilts. She was part of a famous group of quilters from a place called Gee's Bend in Alabama. Her daughters, Qunnie Pettway, Sally Mae Pettway, and Edwina Pettway, also became talented quilters. Candis was also connected to the Freedom Quilting Bee, a group that helped quilters sell their work.
Her Life Story
Candis Mosely married Tank Pettway. They had a very large family, raising sixteen children together! For a while, they also took care of their niece, Loretta Pettway.
As her children grew up, Candis started working outside the home. She worked as kitchen staff at the local elementary school. This job helped support her family.
In her late 50s, Candis became ill with heart problems. Because of her health, she could no longer work at the school. She passed away in 1997 when she was 73 years old.
Her Amazing Quilts
Even after she became ill, Candis continued to create art. She often invited other quilters to her home for what was called a "quilting bee." A quilting bee is when a group of people work together on quilts. They share ideas and help each other sew.
Candis and her quilting bee made very detailed and careful quilts. Her aunt, Allie Pettway, Lucy Mingo, and Allie's daughter, Lola Pettway, often joined her. These women worked together to create stunning fabric artworks. Their quilts are now famous around the world.
