A Star Quilt

Alex Storrs’ Smith Hall office is home to an eclectic assortment of teaching tools collected during his long career as associate professor of astronomy and director of TU’s Watson-King Planetarium and Observatory. For starters, there’s the vivid green doctoral gown from his alma mater, the University of Hawaii, ready for semiannual commencement processions. A solar system mural—created by the professor and his students—spans the length of the narrow room. But the most eye-catching décor element is Storrs’ whimsical astronomy quilt, a 2003 gift from his wife, Jean. Working intermittently over a two-year period, Jean Storrs combined traditional patterns and techniques with astronomy-themed fabrics to design and create a unique keepsake. “She intended it to be a wall hanging,” Storrs says, adding that he chose instead to drape it over a low chair facing the doorway. “When students come to see me, they’re usually apprehensive,” he explains. “I want this space to be welcoming, not forbidding, so having this colorful quilt helps.” Jean Storrs, a part-time librarian and avid quilter and crafter, says the idea for an astronomy quilt came easily. She began by collecting fabrics featuring stars, planets and spaceships. (Her proud husband points out that, like all quilters, she maintains a huge stash of fabrics at home.) Completing one block at a time, she added to a growing pile. Eventually there were enough to begin assembling the quilt. Now, after more than 15 years on display in Alex Storrs’ office, he can attest to its effect. “I’m always battling students’ fear,” he says. “I think the astronomy quilt has a softening effect that makes visitors feel at ease. It’s creative and awe-inspiring—but homey.”