Black Threads

Kwanzaa Harambee Fabric from Kweli

2011-12-04T18:23:00.001-08:00

It's that time of year! Innovative holiday fabrics from Kweli - this print is Kwanzaa Harambee and is available on Spoonflower.com. Enjoy!

Meet Lori Greene Mosaic Artist

2011-12-04T18:13:00.001-08:00

WOW - was visiting other blogs and came across Lori Greene, a mosaic artist in St. Paul's, MN. Lori is also a 2010 Bush Artist Fellow. Here is one of her pieces. Do take a moment to visit her blog at http://greenemosaic.blogspot.com. Enjoy!

StorybookQuilts.org creates a new Coffee Tree Quilt

2011-09-04T10:08:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful surprise I recently received! The quilers at StorybookQuilts.org take children's books with quilting themes and make actual quilts to share during story time at local schools. Students get to read the actual book and see the quilt. Here is the quilt inspired by Martha Ann's Quilt for Queen Victoria. Take a moment to visit the site and two dozen plus story quilts there! Enjoy!

2011-09-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

From July 21 to September 18, 2011, the quilt "Douglass' Kansas Color Light Artillery Battery (Union) Soldiers" quilt will be on display at the Spencer Museum of Art. This quilt is a collaboration between Sistah Kansas quilter Marla Jackson and ninth-graders from Michel Loomis' English class at Central Junior High in Lawrence, Kansas. According to the museum's press release, the First Kansas Colored Volunteer Infantry, depicted in the quilt, was the first black regiment to service with American Indian and white troops. Way to go kids! Enjoy!

Laverne Brackens, Texas Quilter is an Award Recipient!

2011-08-28T09:01:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Laverne Bracken of Fairfield, Texas for receiving one of nine 2011 National Endowments for the Arts National Heritage Fellowships for her quilting. You can see more of Mrs. Bracken's quilt at the Quilts and Stories by Sherry Ann blog. You can click here to read about seven other African American quilters who have been Fellowship recipients in the past. Enjoy!

AAQOC Quilts at the Lakeview Library in Oakland, CA

2011-08-28T07:48:00.001-07:00

This is the last week that 29 small quilts from the African American Quilt Guild of Oakland are on exhibit at the Lakeview Library, 550 El Embarcadero, in Oakland, California. This is the 8th year the guild has participated in displays at this library. The exhibit is open to the public from Aug 3 - 31, 2011. Enjoy!

“African American Quilters of Los Angeles: A Tradition of Pride” - opens Sept 7, 2011

2011-08-22T01:28:00.000-07:00

If you are going to be in the Los Angeles area, “Wrapped in Pride: Ghanaian Kente and African American Identity,” an exhibition at the California State University, Dominguez Hills University Art Gallery opens Sept. 7. This exhibit will explore the art of making kente, its symbolism in the cultures of Africa, and its expression of identity in African American communities.

Concurrently, at the University Art Gallery will be the exhibit “African American Quilters of Los Angeles: A Tradition of Pride” curated by African American Quilters of Los Angeles (AAQLA) vice president Estelle Hamilton and the University Art Gallery, and will feature 30 quilts, including those by Ree Adams, Anne Bastiste, Olga Chachere, Linda Country, Linda Gardner, Ernestine Hadley, Estelle Hamilton, Lou Holland Jones, Debra Knox, Sharon Mathews, Judith Nash, Emma Quinn, Elvis Smith, Toni Terrell-Randolph, and Audrey Williams. An anniversary shout-out to AAQLA, which is celebrating 25 glorious, stitching years in 2011! Both exhibits run through October 18, 2011.

Chris Clark, Alabama Quilter 1958 - 2011

2011-08-18T17:50:00.000-07:00

My prayers are to the family of Chris Clark, a popular Alabama quilter and folk artist, who passed away Tuesday from diabetes. I first became acquainted with Chris' distinctive painted quilts when I was researching Black Threads: An African American Quilting Sourcebook. I was able to speak with him on the phone and hear him share how he first got started quilting. He also let me know one of his quilts was used for a musical CD cover, Laser's Edge American Sampler (1999). I was able to see one of Chris' quilts in person at the Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum. WOW - what he could do with a nine-patch block and paint! You can see more of his quilts at:

According to the Birmingham News, Chris is survived by his wife Deborah Clark; his daughter, Tameika Clark; his mother, Kathleen Clark; and father, Ocie Clark Sr. You can leave a note to his family on Chris' memorial page on Legacy.com. (The photo of Chris here is from the Birmingham News article. Blessings.

Vlisco African Prints - Fashion Catalog July 2011

2011-08-14T17:49:00.000-07:00

Just saw the new Vlisco ad campaign on their website. There is video of the runway show! And, if you click here, a copy of the catalog with fashion photos like the two here. Can you see a quilt made from these fabrics!? Enjoy!

Mixed Greens: Saving the Earth One Quilt At A Time - book now available!

2011-08-14T17:28:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Gwen Maxwell-William and the Pacific Northwest African American Quilters guild for publishing "Mixed Greens: Saving the Earth One Quilt At A Time," a catalog featuring environmental and recycle themed quilts. The 64-page, full-color catalog is available from Blurb.

The quilts are on exhibit at the La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum in La Conner, Washington from June 29 to October 2, 2011. The exhibit is curated by Deborah Boone – quilter/fiber artist and member of the Pacific Northwest African American Quilters. Enjoy!

Baltimore Book Festival - Join Kyra Hicks and Maria Murnane

2011-08-14T13:00:00.000-07:00

If you are going to be in the Baltimore, Maryland area September 23 - 25, do stop by the Baltimore Book Festival! On Saturday, I will join Maria Murnane, the award-winning author of Perfect on Paper, a novel for anyone who has ever run into an ex looking like crap, to give a fun workshop on how to get published. Together we will explain the difference between traditional and self-publishing and provide a clear, step-by-step guide to each. We'll cover the pros and cons of both routes to help you weigh them against your goals as an author! Terry McMillian and Tavis Smiley will be at the Festival, too! Enjoy!

Smithsonian 14k Bible Quilt Bracelet from QVC

2011-07-20T03:55:00.000-07:00

You know you're an extraordinary quilter when your quilt design inspires so many more than 100 years AFTER you stitched the quilt! A friend sent me a link to this Harriet Powers' Bible Quilt inspired 14K gold bracelet from the Smithsonian Collection and available on QVC. This one is available from QVC for $273. This Bible Quilt bracelet is 8 inches. Remember the other Powers' quilt products?

Bible Quilt Upholstery Fabric from 20 years ago, which I'm still looking to unravel who manufactured.
Bible Quilt watercolor painting by artist E. L. Swanson
Powers' Pictorial Quilt pattern book
Bible Quilt bedspread and pillow shams from the Smithsonian - years ago
Or the rather racy novella "A Lesson in Espionage" by CL Scholey!

What do you think about it or the other items inspired by Mrs. Powers' quilts? Enjoy!

A Lesson in Espionage by CL Scholey - a hot novella involving Harriet Powers

2011-07-20T03:17:00.000-07:00

On my Kindle reading list is the novella by racy writer and grandmother CL Scholey. For just $3.99 you can read "A Lesson in Espionage." Here's the promo about this eBook (highlights are mine):

"Espionage and daring intrigue in the nineteenth century? Vonnie, a woman of African-American descent, is a reclusive historian searching for her passion. A missing quilt made by Harriet Powers. Her dreams have been haunted mysteriously by the woman since her first visit to the Smithsonian when she was but a child of six. Vonnie is certain there is something of desperate importance Harriet needs her to discover. The only thing Demarco Axel needs to discover is how Vonnie became tangled up in a CIA clandestine investigation. After he kidnaps her to gain the truth, they embark on a perilous mission to unravel the secrets centered around the mysterious missing quilt..."

WOW - who would have thought Harriet Powers and her quilts would also affect literature in this way!? Have you read this story yet? Enjoy!

Update: I did read this novella - and it's really good! Fasted-paced. I could not believe the CIA is on the trail of Harriet Powers' lost Lord's Supper Quilt! Worth a read.

Google's new What Do You Love? - Try Quilting

2011-06-28T09:44:00.000-07:00

Google has soft launched a new search engine called What Do You Love? It's a one-stop place to find image results, videos, books, mapping, alerts, trends in online discussions, and more! Here is a quick screenshot of African American Quilting in the new What Do You Love? search engine. Try it yourself - put in your own name, or your guild's name or Underground Railroad quilts, or Obama Quilts, or ..... What do you think of the new search engine? Enjoy!

Kickstarter - One Quilter's Project Awaits Funding

2011-06-18T11:17:00.000-07:00

Have you visited the fundraising website Kickstarter? At the moment, sistah quilter Marion Coleman is trying to raise funds to travel to Lithuania this fall as part of the Kaunas Textile Biennial '11 and to attend the European Textile Network conference. Have a look at her project today and view her video. If you decide to make a donation, you won't be charged unless the total amount she is seeking is pledged by a certain date. Marion's six part narrative quilt series will be on exhibit in Lithuania. Best wishes Marion! Enjoy!

Sue Rock Originals Everyone!

2011-06-16T03:15:00.000-07:00

If you haven't heard of the fantastic work Sue Rock is doing, you should check out the 5 min video here! Sue Rock Originals Everyone is the only domestic violence non-profit committed to textile support to those suffering from domestic violence. The 501(c)3 non-profit engages volunteers to sew, knit, or crochet new garments for domestic violence survivors.

According to Ms. Rock, who received a Woman of Valor Award for Excellence in Service by New York State Senator John L. Sampson in May 2011, "for seven years we have had the encouragement of the Brooklyn District Attorney's office in supporting the lives of women."

You can donate directly to this charity or purchase garments at the Sue Rock Originals Everyone store in Crown Heights Brooklyn (1069 Bergen Street, NY, NY 11216). Visit Sue's blog http://suerockoriginals.blogspot.com/ or the Sue Rock Etsy store for vintage knitting and crochet patterns. Enjoy!

Marian Wright Edelman - 1966 Visit to Quilters

2011-06-16T02:41:00.000-07:00

Marian Wright-Edelman (standing) is visiting quilters at the Mount Beulah Center, operated by the Delta Ministry of National Council of Churches in Mississippi, according to a June 1966 Ebony magazine article. The quilters would send the completed pieces to an African American owned cooperative in Jackson to be sold. Just consider - quilts as a revenue generator way back in 1966! Enjoy!

Ravin J. Hill - Jackson, Mississippi Quilter

2011-06-14T05:48:00.000-07:00

I met Ravin J. Hill at the memorial service for quilter Gwen Magee. Gwen had been an artistic mentor to Ravin, a graduate of Tougaloo College (BA) and Florida State University (MS Art Ed). She's a bright, engaging, imaginative quilter. It was a delight to meet her - and especially as we spirited away to the parking lot to see two quilts she had in her car, including a pink and green memorial story quilt she made to honor a best friend.

In 2008, Ravin had a solo quilt exhibit at the Smith Robertson Museum and Cultural Center featuring 11 of her quilts. The show was titled "Grandma's Hands: Celebrating the Quiltcode of the Underground Railroad". In the photo here is an image of the 18-page full-color exhibit catalog and one of her quilts. The show was dedicated to her grandmother, Lueberta Hawkins (1907-1997), who taught her to quilt.

Earlier Ravin titled her senior thesis on "Quilt of Life." I hope she continues to exhibit and write about quilting. Ravin is today engaged in art therapy. Do wish Ravin continued success in her quilting! Enjoy!

January 1987 Alabama Tourism Ad - Quilters

2011-06-14T05:29:00.000-07:00

The January 1987 issue of Ebony magazine featured this state of Alabama tourism ad - "Follow the Achievements of Black Alabamians." The ad features noted Freedom Quilting Bee members
Addie Nicholson and Estelle Witherspoon. Have you noticed other African American quilters in advertising? Enjoy?

Pieced Together; Moscow Meets Harlem June 14 - 27, 2011

2011-06-06T10:37:00.000-07:00

If you are in the New York area, visit the exhibit "Pieced Together; Moscow Meets Harlem" at the National Arts Club in Manhattan, June 14-27, 2011. Marina Kovalyou, president of the Russian American Foundation, and quilter Laura Gadson co-curated the show. Nearly two dozen works by artists such as Michael Cummings, Gadson, N. Fedotovsky, Ife Felix, Dindga McCannon, Paula Wynters, Lidia Semenova, and L. Stepenova are included. (Photo by Mariela Lombard for the NY Daily News.) Enjoy!

Bold Expressions - San Diego Exhibit, New Catalog!

2011-05-26T06:33:00.001-07:00

On exhibit from May 26 through Sept. 11 at the Mingei International Museum, 1439 El Prado, Balboa Park in San Diego, California is “Bold Expressions: African American Quilts from the Collection of Corrine Riley.” Riley has collected quilts for more than 35 years. This exhibit features more than 50 quilts made throughout the American south between 1910 and the 1970s, including those in the American folk art tradition and African-American quilts with improvisation and modern takes on traditional quilting patterns. The majority of quilts were created in Alabama and Texas; other quilters represented are from Mississippi, Georgia, Louisiana, Tennessee, Kentucky, Missouri, Arkansas, Indiana and Illinois. This show is curator by Christine Knoke, the Museum’s director of exhibitions.

There is a 96 page catalog that includes 50 color photos. The catalog is available via the museum's online store for $18.95.Admission to this show ranges from $3 to $7.

On June 11, 2011, the award winning Black Storytellers of San Diego, Inc. will host a program titled "Quilt Me A Story" from 7pm - 8:30pm. Tickets are on sale at the museum website. Enjoy!

Spring Cleaning of the Ole Fabric Stash

2011-05-10T17:10:00.000-07:00

I did it. I finally cleared out my fabric stash - all eight clear bins of fabric lovingly collected over the decade plus! The calicos from when I first learned to quilt... the dozens and dozens of brown fabrics for the people I sew... the yards of fabrics featuring African American images (yes, Black Santa Claus!).... and more. I realized that I didn't need EIGHT bins of fabrics. So, the other week I had a clear-out. I had a ball recalling when or where I was when I purchased different prints, including the horribly expensive Art Deco print I got from Liberty's in London one summer. I laughed asking myself why I purchased four YARDS of the Michael Jordon "Space Jam" cotton print. I finally admitted to myself there are some fabrics I'll never really sew with. Slowly I put aside those prints that I'm not really going to use or need to keep any longer.

I have only three bins of fabric left... the-really-will-sew-with this fabric... the must keep ethnic prints.... and any other piece that simply made me happy. (I donated all the other fabric as well as the 40 spools of thread I'll not use either!) I feel lighter now. Have you ever had such a fabric experience?

"The Evolution of Diane Williams" - Mississippi Quilt Exhbit

2011-05-10T17:09:00.001-07:00

For those within the Jackson, Mississippi area, do stop by and see the exhibit "The Evolution of Diane Williams: Walking the Path" at the Smith Robertson Museum and Cultural Center. This show includes 30 quilts by Williams and ends on May 14, 2011.

Diane Williams is an award-winning Mississippi storyteller. She incorporates her narratives into her art quilts. You can read about Diane at her website MississippiStoryteller.com or by viewing one of her videos on YouTube. Enjoy!

Susan Scott Hester's My Voice on Cloth Master's thesis

2011-05-10T16:59:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Susan Scott Hester for her University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill master's thesis titled "My Voice on Cloth: Story Quilters of the South Carolina Lowcountry."

Her 140 page thesis examines the "genealogy of African American Quilt Scholarship" and the pictorial quilts, individual and artistic experiences of African American art quilters from a particular area in South Carolina. Specifically she focuses on ten quilters: Cookie Washington, Catherine Lamkin, Winifred Sanders, Peggie Hartwell, Dr. Marlene O-Bryant-Seabrook, Lenora Brown, Arianne King-Comer, Dorothy Montgomery, Zelda Grant, and Vermelle "Bunny" Rodrigues.

You can download a copy of the thesis from the University of North Carolina Library - or by clicking here. Congratulations Susan! Enjoy!

Gwendolyn Magee (1943 – 2011) - Sister Quilter and Friend

2011-04-28T16:43:00.000-07:00

It is with profound personal sadness that I share this news. Our Sister Quilter Gwendolyn Magee passed away after an illness. For those who had the privilege to see Gwen’s magnificent art quilts, hear her infectious laughter, or read her art commentaries, you’ll know what a great loss we’ll experience.Gwen, from Jackson, Mississippi, was an award winning quilt artist:

· 2011 – Mississippi Governor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts http://www.arts.state.ms.us/special-projects/governors-awards.php

· 2007 – Ford Fellow, United States Artists http://www.unitedstatesartists.org/user/gwenmagee

· 2006 – “Honored Artist,” Mississippi State Committee, National Museum of Women in the Arts.

· 2003 – Visual Arts of the Year – Mississippi Institute of Arts and Letters

Gwen also inspired many textile artists and quilters nationally through her online outreach efforts. She was among the first to create a website dedicated to quilting and textiles by minorities worldwide. She owned and operated from 1999 - 2007 QuiltEthnic.com (http://quiltethnic.com), a leading textile history website. Additionally, she hosted the informative, creative, and instructional blog Textile Arts Resource Guide (http:creativityjourney.blogspot.com).

Gwen’s marvelous, emotional creativity was shared through her art and story quilts. Photographer and folklorist Roland Freeman was among the first to document Gwen’s quilts in the landmark book, Communion of the Spirits (1997). Her quilts were also included in such exhibitions as: Spirits of the Cloth: Contemporary Quilts by African American Artists (1999), Threads of Faith (2004), Honored Women Artists of Mississippi: A Retrospective (2007), Sou’s Journey: Inside the Creative Process (2009), Tradition/Innovations: American Masterpieces of Southern Craft & Traditional Art (2008), and more.

Gwen’s work was also documented in the solo traveling exhibition and catalog Journey of the Spirit: The Art of Gwendolyn A. Magee (2004 – 2007). You can see her artwork on Black Artists in America (http://blackartinamerica.com/profile/GwenMagee) or her own website (http://gwenmagee.com/). Here is a link to a article about Gwen from the Jackson Free Press newspaper: click here.

Gwen is survived by her loving husband, Magee (that’s all I ever heard her call him!), her two daughters, a son-in-law, two grandsons, and a host of other family and friends.

A memorial service for is set for 5 p.m. May 6 at the Mississippi Museum of Art: 380 South Lamar Street, Jackson, MS 39201. Tel: 601-960-1515.

May we celebrate Gwen's life and extraordinary creativity - and ask for blessings for her family.

Conversation with Aminah Robinson and Faith Ringgold - Columbus Museum

2011-04-04T06:38:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to the Ancestral Blessings blog for posting this conversation between two master artists (and quilters) - Aminah Robinson and Faith Ringgold speaking at the Columbus Museum of Art. The video is on YouTube. In the first five moments, they speak about exhibiting in "Stitching Memories: African American Story Quilts." This was the exhibit that I saw in 1991 that told me to be a quilter! This video is 40 mins long - so get a warm or cool drink and .... ENJOY!

Well Seasoned Sisters Cookbook by Sisters in Stitches Joined By the Cloth

2011-03-27T06:51:00.000-07:00

Just published! The Sisters In Stitches Joined By The Cloth, the only African American quilting guild in New England, has just published a cookbook titled Well Seasoned Sisters Cookbook. Guild members offer family recipes and beautiful quilts in this book. There are over 100 recipes and 30 color photos. The book is available to order on Lulu.com - just click here. Enjoy!

PS 31 Kids Explore African Arts and Quilting

2011-03-18T06:25:00.000-07:00

Read a wonderful article from the Staten Island Advance about art and music teacher Emily Ellison and her year-long curriculum to teach various aspects of African arts and crafts to PS31 third, forth, and fifth graders. They have learned about African masks, weaving, embroidery and quilting. The class visited the Sandy Ground Historical Society Museum to see African American quilts there. They are now making a class quilt with each student stitching their own block. According to the article, teacher Ellison challenged the students to consider:

"What kind of design represents you the best? What if someone found our quilt 500 years from now? What will your design say about you?

What a wonderful classroom experience! Are there similar programs in your community? Enjoy!

Sandy Ground Historical Society - Staten Island, NY

2011-03-18T06:08:00.000-07:00

The Sandy Ground Historical Society Museum and Library has this wonderful story quilt (photo). Sandy Ground, on the south shore side of Staten Island, was founded in the early 19th century by freed black men from New York. The museum offers arts and crafts programs, at times some are focused on African American quilts. During spring and summer, the museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, 1 - 4pm. Call 718-317-5796 for more information. Enjoy!

African American Quilt Circle Quilts at the Hayti Heritage Center

2011-03-16T06:30:00.000-07:00

African American Quilt Circle of Durham, North Carolina presents their bi-annual exhibition, “Reflections” in the Lyda Moore Merrick Gallery at the Hayti Heritage Center, February 4- March 30, 2011. The AAQC, founded in 1998 by four African-American women (Bertie Howard, Jereann King, Candace Thomas and Helen Sanders), has over 60 members today. Enjoy!

Lancaster Quilt & Textile Museum Quilt Symposium & Workshop April 2

2011-03-16T06:14:00.000-07:00

Have you visited the Lancaster Quilt & Textile Museum in Lancaster, PA? This is the museum known for its renowned collection of antique Amish Quilts from the former Esprit Collection.

On Saturday, April 2, 2011, there will be a one-day quilt symposium and workshop. Historian and author Lynne Zacek Bassett will examine textiles that women created to honor their country and their fighting menfolk in her talk "Textiles of the Civil War." Kyra Hicks will share insights on "200 Years of African American Quilt History" in the morning. In the afternoon, Kyra will lead a workshop titled How to Tell Your Stories Through Quilts. There will also be a book signing. The entire day is just $15. Enjoy!

Stitched Ballads with Dr. Patricia Turner - MOAD in San Fran

2011-03-10T01:55:00.000-08:00

If you are in the San Francisco area Saturday, March 12, 2011, visit the Museum of the African Diaspora to hear Dr. Patricia Turner's presentation "Stitched Ballads." The presentation is free with museum admissions. Dr. Turner is the author of Crafted Lives: Stories and Studies of African American Quilters. Additionally, there will be a quilting workshop with master quilter Marion Coleman on the same day. The exhibit Textural Rhythms: Constructing the Jazz Tradition, Contemporary African American Quilts is currently at the museum. Click here for all events and times. Enjoy!

Tara Evans - Omaha Quilter

2011-03-08T06:50:00.000-08:00

Wanted to introduce you to Tara Evans, a quilter in Nebraska! She shared with me how she started quilting:

Well, back in 2003, I bought an old sewing machine from a local pond shop. I had a friend of mine who made photo memory quilts and I couldn't afford to purchase one so I decided to try to make one myself. I became discouraged because an advanced seamstress saw how crooked my lines were and how my machine was not of the best quality and discouraged me.

Well, last year my Mom turned 80 and I wanted to give her a photo memory quilt with all her kids and grandkids on it....I spoke to my niece who quilts, Akita , who encouraged me greatly by saying, "Aunt Tara if you can sew a straight line then you can quilt." Out of the mouth of babes,...I tell you! I was so happy to hear such encouragement that I dug out all of my quilt supplies and books ...I spoke to my daughter who told me that if I wanted to learn how to do anything just go to You Tube! These kids know EVERYTHING! So, I watched a beginner's quilting video series over and over until I got the process down....the rest is history!

You can see Tara making a photo memory quilt for her great niece, Mikelle. I think its marvelous that Tara didn't let the negative words of others discourage her forever. Happy Sewing Tara! Enjoy!

"Holding Grandmother's Quilt" Mural in Philadelphia

2011-03-01T04:55:00.000-08:00

Donald Gensler created the two-part mural, "Holding Grandmother's Quilt" in 2004 with the assistance of Angela Crafton and students from the University of Pennsylvania. The mural is located at Aspen St and N 39th Street. One part shows local resident elder Ruth Jones sewing a quilt while three children, in the second mural, hold onto the bottom the quilt. These murals are part of the Philadelphia program, Mural Arts Program. Are there any quilt-themed murals in your neighborhood? Enjoy!

Felix St. Fort's Mural of “Sunflower Quilting Bee at Arles”

2011-03-01T04:41:00.000-08:00

Next time you're in Philadelphia, visit Felix St. Fort's 2007 mural featuring “Sunflower Quilting Bee at Arles,” a quilt by Faith Ringgold. The mural is located at 1756 N 29th Street. This and other Philly murals can be found at MuralFarm.org.

Princeton Theological Seminary Students Unveil New Quilt

2011-02-13T16:40:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Princeton Theological Seminary students Anjeanette Allen (M.Div., 2012), Rachel Daley (M.Div., 2011), and Chinor Miguel Lee (M.Div., 2013) for the unveiling of a community quilt project commemorating the breadth and scope of African American religion. The three students were in Yolanda Pierce’s Fall 2010 African American Religious History class.

Ms. Allen, who earlier wrote a paper about the significance of quilting in the African American religious tradition, organized the community quilt project. The quilt is thirty-six-inches by thirty-six-inches and includes sixteen blocks. Cynthelia Cephas, a fourth-generation African American master quilter, taught participants quilting, as none of the three students were quilters. Blocks within the quilt feature events such as the beginning of the African American Pentecostal movement and the March on Washington as well as individuals such as Harriet Tubman and Jarena Lee, the first woman authorized to preach by Richard Allen, founder of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

How terrific is it that students can create quilts as part of their school projects! I'd love to learn more about the individual quilt blocks, how about you!? Congratulations again to Anjeanette, Rachel and Chinor! Enjoy!

Gloucester Community College Black History Art Show includes quilts

2011-02-13T14:01:00.000-08:00

Gloucester County College in Sewell, NJ and LINKS, Inc. are hosting an art show featuring quilts, paintings, and photographs of regional and local artists including: Kathleen Lindsey, Michele Lucas, Vusumuzi Maduna, Ruby Peters, Joan Wallace Reeves, Sandra Peterson-Giles, Vincent Wilson, a 12-year-old cartoonist, and Walter Cade III, and Luther Alridge aka Obrafo. The exhibit is at the college center's Dr. Ross Beitzel Art Gallery from January 29 to March 4, 2011.

Kathleen Lindsey, from Clayton, New Jersey, has been quilting for 30 years, according to the Gloucester County Times. She is also the author of the picture book Sweet Potato Pie published by Lee & Low. Enjoy!

In A Time, A Season - A Visual Tribute to Oprah Winfrey - new book

2011-02-08T07:12:00.000-08:00

A quilt by Georgia Sistah Quilter Renee Allen is included in the new book "In A Time, A Season - A Visual Tribute to Oprah Winfrey" edited by Janelle Dowell-Publisher of Black Art in America. The works of about 65 artists are included. Faith Ringgold writes the Foreword. This full-color book is 118 pages and retails for $165. You can preview the book by clicking here. Congratulations Renee!

Update: Wanted to share the names of other quilters in the book. Congratulations also to Valerie S. Goodwin, Sandra Hankins, and Aisha Lumumba. Enjoy!

Quilts Telling Stories - Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Feb 16

2011-02-08T06:57:00.000-08:00

The Textile and Costume Society of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston is hosting a panel discussion titled "Quilts Telling Stories" on February 16, 2011. It is a ticketed event.

There will be an exploration of 19th-century storytelling quilts, from the extraordinary example in the MFA collection by former slave Harriet Powers (the Pictorial Quilt in photo here), to a silk quilt made by Celestine Bacheller of Massachusetts, and quilts sent by northern women to the battlefields of the Civil War.

The panel will include: Lynne Bassett, Textile and costume historian, Kyra E. Hicks, quilter and author of This I Accomplish: Harriet Powers' Bible Quilt and Other Pieces, Pam Parmal, David and Roberta Logie Curator of Textile and Fashion Arts, and Lauren Whitley, curator, David and Roberta Logie Department of Textile and Fashion Arts. Enjoy!

"Liberia's Hope" Quilting Initiative at Union College in Schenectady, NY

2011-02-03T02:33:00.000-08:00

Opening today is the exhibit "Liberia's Hope" Quilting Initiative at Union College in Schenectady, NY. The display of two dozen quilts made by women in Liberia will be at the Nott Memorial February 3rd – March 11th, 2011. This initiative is coordinated by The Corporation for Economic Opportunity (CEO). There is an opening reception this evening - free to the public. I will be speaking. Can't wait to see the quilts and meet other quilters! Enjoy!

Gloria Douglas and Michelle Lewis to speak on Feb 12

2011-02-01T05:04:00.000-08:00

Gloria Douglas and Michelle Lewis, the dynamic founders of the "Storytellers in Cloth" annual quilting retreat, will be speaking February 12, 2011 at the Red Bank Public Library in Red Bank, New Jersey. Their two-hour program titled "Preserving our History" starts at 2:30pm and will include one-of-a-quilts from their collection!

Kyra on Sewing with Nancy!

2011-01-30T07:58:00.001-08:00

Check your PBS station - I had the honor of being interviewed on the famed Sewing with Nancy show during the Nancy's Corner segment. Actually, two shows! They will be shown on January 30 and February 6... and repeated July 31 and Aug 7, 2011. (Programs 2425 and 2426). Nancy shares with her viewers my books on Martha Ann Ricks and Harriet Powers.

Nancy Zieman has hosted Sewing With Nancy for the past 26 years. May I just share that Nancy and the staff at the Wisconsin Public TV station are marvelous .... from the make-up artist, film crew, and booking staff. And, Nancy herself is as friendly and as warm as she appears on tv. Enjoy!

2011 Call For Art Quilt Entries - North Charleston Arts Festival Art/Humanity

2011-01-30T07:42:00.000-08:00

For those who enjoy exhibiting quilts, there is a call for entries into the 5th annual art quilt exhibit at the North Charleston Arts Festival. Here is part of the entry information:

"Art/Humanity is open to quilters of African descent within the United States, it’s provinces, Mexico and Canada. Only quilts or quilted hangings will be considered. A quilt is a fabric sandwich comprised of three layers: a top, a back and filling which are held together with quilting or tying threads. Integration of non-fabric embellishments is acceptable and encouraged.

"Quilts submitted should explore themes of Art, humanity, compassion, service, generosity, and love. What do these concepts mean to you as an art quilter? Quilts must be an original design or an original execution of a traditional pattern. Quilt dimensions must not be less than 12" x 12" nor exceed 84"x 84"and each quilt must have a 4" hanging sleeve and an identifying label on the back of the quilt. Quilts that have been exhibited nationally in the previous 5 years are not eligible.

"NCCA Department will make a list available to our visitors of quilts that are for sale. We will provide any interested parties with your sale price and contact information. We do require a 10% commission on any pieces that are sold.

"The 2011 jurying process will be done from digital images only. Entrants should submit two images per entry (one overall view and one detail view). All images must be of publication quality. Each entry must also include an artist's statement of no more than 100 words describing the story or the inspiration behind the quilt. Entries must be received via email no later than the close of business March 11, 2011.

A $25 non-refundable entry fee will cover submission of up to two quilts."

For the complete call entry information, please do contact Torreah “Cookie” Washington, Curator of ART/Humanity 2011. Her phone number is (843) 259-8108. Enjoy!

Art of Faith Ringgold at SCAD Museum of Art

2011-01-19T04:48:00.000-08:00

"The Art of Faith Ringgold: Story Quilts and Freedom Quests" exhibit is on display at the SCAD Museum of Art in Savannah, GA from January 31 to April 15, 2011. For your viewing pleasure will be 60 pieces, including new ones direct from Ringgold's gallery! Enjoy!

Women of Vision at Penn State New Kensington Campus

2011-01-18T17:51:00.000-08:00

On exhibit January 10 to February 2, 2011 at Penn State, New Kensington Campus is the exhibit "Visions at 30: Celebration of Life," featuring quilts, drawings, photographs, prints and paintings created by the Women of Vision Inc., a nonprofit women's art collective based in Pittsburgh.

Some of the artist in the exhibit include Laverne Kemp (her "Spiritual Armour" piece is here in the photo), quilter Tina Williams Brewer, artist Delores Dee, photographic artist Joyce Baucum Currin, mixed artist Elizabeth Asche Douglas, photographer Gail Manker, mixed media artist Celeta Hickman, artist and quilter Harriette Meriwether, artist Tenanche Rose Golden, and about a dozen other artist. (Click here to see the photo gallery of the show.) Enjoy!

Ramsess Quilts a Magnificant Moor!

2011-01-03T04:51:00.000-08:00

While visiting the famed Eso Won bookstore in Los Angeles, I was arrested upon seeing one of the most magnificent quilts I've ever seen .... one about 8 or 9 feet tall of a Moor warrior. You've likely seen the poster that inspired the quilt. You gotta understand - this magnificent Moor warrior looked as if he would step off the fabric and defend his family! The Moor is standing on fabric steps and, honestly, you can imagine him lifting his robes so his sandal feet don't trip.

I asked James there at Eso Won who the heck made the quilt and he shared that the quilter was a man named Ramsess, who also creates stain glass windows. I had to meet this quilter. A family friend eventually made an introduction for me and I met Ramsess back at Eso Won after Sunday services.

It was great meeting Ramsess in person. What a warm spirit - my iPhone photo here doesn't do him or the quilt justice. Anyway, he shared his technique for making the quilt - for him it is like making a stain glass window, only using fabrics. He has just a regular sewing machine. The quilt is still to be quilted, hanging with safety pins to keep the batting in place. Even the back of the quilt is fine.

Now the kicker - Ramsess just started to quilt in March 2010! Let me put this another way - he just learned to quilt March 2010!

A couple of his quilts will be on exhibit at the William Grant Still Arts Center in Los Angeles as part of the 28th Annual Black Doll show, which opens January 8, 2011. Enjoy!

Black Art Project

2011-01-03T04:38:00.000-08:00

If you are interested in Black Art - you should bookmark George-McKinley Martin's blog titled the Black Art Project. He describes himself as an "[a]rt librarian, historian, and collector driven by a passion to raise the visibility of black art history and the work of black artists through documentation, education, and advocacy."

You will find info on the latest exhibits of African American art nationally. Now, I like to document aspects of African American quilting. I'm an infant compared to Mr. Martin, who is amazing! He has assembled an ANNUAL list of Black Art exhibits. And, for the truly serious among us, you've got to see his list of African American Art Books on WorldCat. Enjoy!

White House Quilting Bee on Larry King Set

2010-12-30T22:14:00.000-08:00

Enjoy! Now over 7,000 views!!

White House Quilting Bee - Hillary Arrives video

2010-12-30T18:16:00.000-08:00

Have you ever seen those cute animated videos and wondered how it's done? I recently read about Xtranormal, a service that enables you to create a one or two character animated "movie" by simply typing in a script! So, I signed up and gave it a try. Here is the debut screening of "White House Quilting Bee - Hillary Arrives" video. It is my first Xtranormal video. Enjoy!

Fabric Flower Pattern

2010-12-10T04:34:00.000-08:00

This is such a cute fabric flower! Thanks to Sew Prim Khris blog for sharing the free instructions for how to make such a flower. I'd love to make a bouquet of fabric flowers using kente cloth. Would you like to see more patterns on the Black Threads blog? Enjoy!

Aminah Robinson: Voices That Taught Me How To Sing

2010-12-08T06:21:00.000-08:00

The exhibit "Aminah Robinson: Voices That Taught Me How To Sing" is on display at the Toledo Museum of Art through February 28, 2011. According to the Columbus Dispatch,

"...Robinson created "The Ragmund Collection," a 10-volume set of sculptural books that include drawings, poems, stories and books-within-books. The collection was recently acquired by the Toledo Museum of Art... The 10 volumes, not previously shown publicly, cover the artist's career and her many methods of creating works. The recurring themes include her childhood in Poindexter Village, a former neighborhood on the East Side of Columbus, and her experiences examining the African diaspora. In her work, she uses fabric; buttons; everyday objects; and a mixture of mud, pig grease, dyes, sticks and other materials."

You can click here to see the YouTube video, titled The Toe Party, of Aminah Robinson sharing one of her extraordinary books! The museum has also published The Ragmund Collection: Books by Aminah Robinson, $29.95. This book includes pullout pages and other sculptural effects. Essays by Amy Gilman, museum curator of contemporary and modern art, and Barbara Tannenbaum, director of curatorial affairs at the Akron Art Museum are also included. Enjoy!

Geraldine Zillions - Texas Quilter Overcoming Odds

2010-11-30T03:25:00.000-08:00

The Fort Worth, Texas Star Tribune published a story about Geraldine Zillions in its November 23, 2010 issue titled "After Years of Abuse, Mom is Finding a Way to Shine Again." If you can, take a moment to read Sistah Quilter Zillions' story. The early parts are hard to bear, yet 52-year old Ms. Zillions is using her creative energy to make hand-stitched quilts, jewelry, and wearable art to bring joy - and a bit of revenue - to her life now. Blessings!

Tricia Waddell - Editor-in-Chief, Stitch Magazine

2010-11-29T06:09:00.001-08:00

Tricia Waddell, editor-in-chief of Stitch Magazine, recently announced that the bi-annual publication is moving to quarterly! Burda Style recently published an online interview with Ms. Waddell. According to the interview, she's a crafter herself:

"I love to make stuff period, so I do all sorts of crafts. I enjoy knitting, jewelry-making, mixed-media artwork, hand embroidery, and most recently I have been learning to weave. I definitely combine crafts, especially the fiber-related crafts. I love adding custom handcrafted touches like embroidery or beading to my sewing projects. And I want to add more fiber techniques into my mixed-media work."

What do you like best about Stitch? If you are not familiar with Stitch Magazine, do visit the Stitch blog! Enjoy!

Update: Carol - thanks for sharing that the Burda link is no longer working. Sorry about that! Here's a link to a YouTube video interview with Ms. Waddell by PinkChalkTV. Enjoy!

Auction Finds - blog by Sherry Howard

2010-11-23T04:56:00.000-08:00

Today I stumbled upon - and then spent nearly an hour reading - Sherry Howard's Auction Finds blog. Ms. Howard, who also has taken quilting classes, describes different treasures she finds at local auctions such as Jet Magazines, samplers, artwork by black women including Lois Mailou Jones, and more! If you have a moment, put in your bid at the Auction Finds blog. Enjoy!

New Books in History features "This I Accomplish," the book on Harriet Powers

2010-11-19T11:56:00.000-08:00

If you love history, do stop by the website New Books in History. Dr. Marshall Poe of the University of Iowa hosts a weekly podcast featuring a historian talking about a ..... new book in history. Dr. Poe is an expert in Russian history and has even played basketball with President Barack Obama! He and I had a delightful conversation about Harriet Powers and her quilts. I also shared my thoughts that if there is a Harriet Powers' quilt as-yet-unidentified still out there, it is likely in Iowa and from a September 1959 auction of the contents of Port Sunshine, the Keokuk, Iowa home of James and Lorene Curtis Diver. If you are on Facebook, check out New Books in History there. Enjoy!

Nubian Heritage Quilters Guild launch new website!

2010-11-19T08:51:00.000-08:00

The Nubian Heritage Quilters Guild, founded in March 1995 in Newark, NJ, just launched their website! Do take a moment and visit www.nubianquilters.org . Enjoy!

Strength from All My Roots: Textile Arts Honoring the Legacy of Pauli Murray

2010-11-18T16:25:00.000-08:00

Wish I could be in Durham, NC tomorrow for the opening of "Strength From All My Roots: Textile Arts Honoring the Legacy of Pauli Murray" at the St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, 403 E. Main Street, Durham from November 19 to 30, 2010.

According to her memorial website, "Pauli Murray was a champion for civil and human rights who grew up in Durham. Her insights and vision continue to resonate powerfully in our times. As a historian, attorney, poet, activist, teacher and Episcopal priest, she worked throughout her life to address injustice, to give voice to the unheard, to educate, and to promote reconciliation between races and economic classes. Her beautifully written memoir, Proud Shoes: The Story of an American Family, was published in 1956."

The textile exhibit features narrative quilts by the Heritage Quilters group in Warren County. Some of the quilts are stitched by Carol Beck, Marjorie Diggs Freeman, Barbara Lau, and Mary Rocap of Hillsborough, according to an article in the Herald-Sun by Dawn Baumgartner Vaughan with photos by Christine T. Nguyen. In the photo areThe Rev. Jeanette Stokes (left) and Courtney Reid-Eaton, curator. Enjoy the exhibit!

Carole Harris' textile creations on display

2010-11-18T15:29:00.000-08:00

Carole Harris' quilts and textile work are currently on display at the Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital (just outside of Detroit) from November 4 to December 30, 2010 as part of the Healing Arts Program - Artist Avenue Gallery. Enjoy!

Lucy Craft Laney Museum - 2010 Augusta GA quilt exhibit

2010-11-15T05:08:00.000-08:00

The Lucy Craft Laney Museum's Annual Quilt Exhibit is on display now until December 31, 2010 in Augusta, GA. This year the featured quilting group is the Essie McManus Quilting Guild of Johnston, South Carolina. Other quilters works are also on display. The quilts, according the museum's website, "reflect a combination of history, culture, skill and an overwhelming love for this emerging art." Admissions: $5 for adults, $3 for seniors/military, $2 for children. Click here to see WJBF-TV news report of the exhibit. Enjoy!

Dr. Nancy J. Dawson organizes TN and KY Black Quilt & History Project

2010-11-15T04:54:00.000-08:00

I just read the following online:

"Quilters from Tennessee and Kentucky will collaborate with The Homeplace, located in Land Between The Lakes (LBL) National Recreation Area, and Fort Donelson National Battlefield to design a series of quilts depicting the African American experience “Between the Rivers” (LBL), and the Civil War in Middle Tennessee.
The project, which is being sponsored by The Homeplace, Fort Donelson National Battlefield, and the Emmanuel Family Life Center Quilting Guild of Clarksville, will begin with a panel discussion on African Americans at Fort Donelson, Fort Henry, and “Between the Rivers.” Join us Saturday, November 20th, 2010, from 1:00pm to 3:00pm at Emmanuel Family Life Center, 303 Fairview Lane, Clarksville, Tennessee.

Guest speakers will include Cindy Earls from The Homeplace; Nina Finley from the Houston County Historical Society; Susan Hawkins from Fort Donelson; George Sholar, a descendant of African American soldiers who were recruited at Fort Donelson; and Nancy J. Dawson, an African American Studies researcher and the project director.

In honor of African American History Month, the quilt exhibit will be displayed at various locations throughout Tennessee and Kentucky in February 2011, including schools, museums, and libraries. The quilts will be discussion pieces to help Fort Donelson and The Homeplace interpret the Underground Railroad in this area, the enslavement of African Americans, and their daily lives during the Civil War era.

The event is free and open to the public. Quilters and historians are encouraged to attend. For more information email Dr. Nancy J Dawson at efuanjd@yahoo.com." Enjoy!

Columbus Black Doll & Gift Show - November 27, 2010

2010-11-15T04:21:00.000-08:00

If you are in Columbus, Ohio on November 27, check out the Columbus Black Doll & Gift Show. Natasha Gates, who is organizing the event, shared with me that the show will be from 10am to 5pm at the Aladdin Shrine Center, 3850 Stelzer Road, Columbus, OH 43219. Admission is $4 for adults, $2 for children 6 to 12 years old. Free parking. Enjoy!

Malene B - Carpet Designer

2010-11-12T01:52:00.000-08:00

I wish this Market Women carpet came in fabric! Have you visited Brooklyn-based carpet designer Malene B's website? Go! Enjoy!

Black Santa Fabric from Kweli Kitwana

2010-11-10T04:47:00.000-08:00

Every year I am on the look out for African American or Black Santa Fabrics. If you see some in your area or online, will you drop a note? Have you seen Kweli Kitwana's Black Santa Joy fabric?! The cotton print is available from SpoonFlower.com. The print also comes in a blue background. Enjoy!

Sisters of the Yam - Quilt at the VMFA in Richmond

2010-11-08T07:03:00.000-08:00

The Sisters of the Yam, a quilting guild in Richmond, VA since 2001, has a lovely quilt on display at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. The quilt is a complement to the current exhibit American Quilts: Selections from the Winterthur Collection is organized by Winterthur and curated by Linda Eaton, Senior Curator of Textiles at Winterthur. The Sisters of the Yam recently presented their 2011 "Opportunity Quilt" as a raffle benefiting the Black History Museum in Richmond. This gorgeous handmade quilt, titled "Diamond Trellis," is 84" x 96" featuring 224 blocks in a diamond pattern with black stripes creating a trellis design. Raffle tickets $5 each or 3 for $10. The drawing will be held March 17, 2011. Contact the Black History Museum at 804-780-9093 for info on purchasing tickets. Enjoy!

1.6 Million African American Quilters mug and tote bag

2010-11-08T06:54:00.000-08:00

For those interested, you can get a 1.6 Million African American Quilters mug, tote bag or other items at Cafe Press. The mug is $11.99 and the tote is $13.99. Enjoy!

Artistic Expressions of Quilters of Color - now available!

2010-10-29T07:58:00.000-07:00

The Ebony Stitchers Quilt Guild has done it again! They have just published "Artistic Expressions of Quilters of Color"! This 48-page softcover book features quilts, profiles, and short text for the following 33 quilters:

Ms. Ceree Bowden, Renee Allen, Marquetta Bell Johnson, Linda Asbury, N. Yvonne Bernal, Nicole Blackwell, Myla Chapman, Jessica Coleman, Cleme Cosby, Anita Burns Crosby, Joyce Daniels, Edna Marie Gaddis Anderson, Mamie Ellis, Lindsey G. France, Nancy DeCreny Franklin, Gwen Gordon, Janice Hunter, Melanie Ligon, Aisha Lumumba, Ernestine Merritt, Wardean S. Miller, Tricia Montgomery, Carolyn Newton, Elaine Parker, Theresa Polley-Shellcroft, Belinda Pedroso, Tinnie and Minnie Pettway, J. C. Rice, Billie Jean Richardson, Paulette Strain, Carolyn W. White, Inez Wilkerson, and Irma Young.

The book also includes a pattern for a Bird of Paradise quilt. Margaret Warfield created the cover design. Michael Angelo Chester is credited for the book design and layout. The quilts from these quilters from Georgia to California are just marvelous! The book retails for $20 and is available from the Ebony Stitchers Quilt Guild website. Great holiday gift. Enjoy!

Artist Tai R's patchwork celebration of Arne Jacobsen's Egg Chair

2010-10-28T19:48:00.000-07:00

Aren't these chairs adorable? They are from Danish artist Tai R. In 2008, he created 50 chairs to celebrate designer Arne Jacobsen's classic Egg Chair. Have fun - and click here to see the 50 Unique Egg Chair book! Enjoy!

African-American Quilts Today: A Celebration of Motherhood, Sisterhood & the Matriarchs

2010-10-14T04:21:00.000-07:00

The New England Quilt Museum is presenting "African-American Quilts Today: A Celebration of Motherhood, Sisterhood & the Matriarchs," an exhibit curated by Dr. Pearlie Johnson. The exhibit features the works of NedRa Bonds, Sonie Ruffin, Sherry Whetstone, and Michele David and will be on exhibit from October 21, 2010 to January 3, 2011. Quilts are divided into four themes: Motherhood and Fertility, Women and Matriarchs, Inspiration and Empowerment, and Ancestral Legacy. (Quilt in photo by NedRa Bonds.)

Additionally, there will be two special events: a trunk show with Sisters in Fiber, a Boston area African American fiber art group, on Nov. 6th and a trunk show on Nov. 13 with Sisters in Stitches, a Boston area African American quilt guild. Enjoy!

Southern Stitches: African-American Quilts from the Collection of Larry Hackley

2010-10-13T05:05:00.000-07:00

The exhibit "Southern Stitches: African-American Quilts from the Collection of Larry Hackley" opens October 21 at Morehead State University in Morehead, KY. The show runs until February 26, 2011 and features 16 bold and colorful quilts made by six African-American quilters from Mississippi and Alabama. Hackley is a folk art collector. The opening Thursday, Oct. 21, 5-7 p.m. will also feature a reading by poet Honorée Jeffers at 7 p.m. One of her collections is titled "The Gospel of Barbecue." Enjoy!

Happy 80th Birthday Faith Ringgold!

2010-10-08T06:04:00.000-07:00

Sending all best wishes to Faith Ringgold on her birthday today. The Neuberger Museum of Art is presenting a comprehensive survey of Ringgold paintings, on view September 11 to December 19, 2010. The exhibit includes the American People (1963 - 1967) and Black Light (1967 - 1971) series. There is an exhibit catalog. And, closing tomorrow at the ACA Art Galleries New York is the exhibit "Faith Ringgold: Coming to Jones Road, Part II & Other Story Quilts." Blessings!

Hands that Can Do: African-American Quilters of Northeast Georgia

2010-10-06T07:26:00.000-07:00

On exhibit at the Lyndon House Arts Center in Athens, GA is an exhibit titled, Hands that Can Do: African-American Quilters of Northeast Georgia, from October 5, 2010 to January 20, 2011. The exhibit is part of the celebration honoring African American quilting legend, Harriet Powers. Admissions to the exhibit is free. Contact (706) 613-3623 for more information.

Harriet Powers Week at the Athens Regional Library is set for October 24 - 28, 2010. Activities include storytelling, crafts and music for young and old!

A symposium on Harriet Powers will be held in conjunction with the exhibit in the Community Room of the Lyndon House Arts Center, Saturday, October 30, 2010 from 9:30 – 3:30 p.m. The panelists, Winnie McQueen, Diane Barret, and me, will discuss topics that include the quilts of Harriet Powers, textile traditions of West Africa, and African American quilters in northeast Georgia. I will also sign my book, This I Accomplish: Harriet Powers' Bible Quilt and Other Pieces. Additionally, there will be an African market of textiles from West Africa. Enjoy!

Sabrina Fair - Ford's Theatre - Have you seen THIS Sabrina?

2010-10-04T04:34:00.000-07:00

Have you seen the movie Sabrina? You know, the one staring Audrey Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart ... or even the updated version staring Harrison Ford and Julia Ormond? This is a Cinderella story of a chauffeur's daughter who falls in love with one of two sons of the rich Larrabee family. Sabrina escapes to Paris, in part to get over her love... or does she?

Well, this month the Ford's Theatre is now showing the play Sabrina Fair by Samuel A. Taylor. The play starts with Sabrina returning home after five years in Paris. And, in this play, Sabrina and her Dad are African American! (Photo: Tom Story as David, Susan Heyward as Sabrina and Todd Gearhart as Linus photographed by Scott Suchman at Hillwood.).

If you are in the DC area, the Ford's Theatre is offering two free tickets to the Sunday, October 10th 7:30pm showing to Black Threads blog readers. To enter the raffle for the free tickets, leave a comment and here about either the films or play Sabrina. You'll have to also leave your email address so that if you are selected, I can get in contact with you. I will randomly select a winner on Wednesday. Enjoy!

Inspirations, Visions & Traditions: 2010 Quilt and Doll Show

2010-10-04T04:21:00.000-07:00

If you are in the Cleveland area, be sure to see the exhibit, "Inspirations, Visions & Traditions: 2010 Quilt and Doll Show," by the African American Quilt & Doll Guild of Warrensville Heights, Ohio October 15 - 16, 2010. Friday's event includes a lecture by wearable arts designer Rachel Clark and a fashion show. There is an admission charge.

While at the exhibit, be sure to check out the quilts by guild member Julius Bremer (photo by Lisa DeJong, Plain Dealer), who was featured recently in the Plain Dealer newspaper. Enjoy!

Unpacking Collections: The Legacy of Cuesta Benberry, An African American Quilt Scholar Symposium

2010-10-01T08:08:00.000-07:00

Michigan State University will host "Unpacking Collections: The Legacy of Cuesta Benberry, An African American Quilt Scholar Symposium" from Friday, October 8 to Sunday, October 10 on the East Lansing campus and the East Lansing Marriott. Click here for registration information. Here's a sample of the activities:

Tour the exhibit featuring Cuesta Benberry's collection.
See the new film "The Skin Quilt Project" along with a Q&A by filmmaker Lauren Cross
Behind the scenes tour of the MSU quilt collection, including its African and African American quilts!

On Saturday, October 9 the symposium will include presentations and Q&A by:

Dr. Carolyn Mazloomi, "Building a Legacy: The Collection of the Women of Color Quilters Network 1985 - 2009"
Dr. Patrica Turner, "Inspired to Document: Cuesta Benberry's Legacy in Quilt Scholarship"
Merikay Waldvogel, "How a Lot of Paper Changed My Career Path: Using Historical Round Robin Quilt Collections in Modern Quilt Research"
Kyra Hicks, "Five Collections Held Harriet Powers' Quilt Secrets"

The MSU Museum team responsible for the entire program are: Beth Donaldson, Dr. Marsha MacDowell, Lynne Swanson, Amanda Grace Sikarskie, Pearl Yee Wong, and Mary Worrall. Enjoy!

1.6 Million African American Quilters: Survey, Sites, and a Half-Dozen Art Quilt Blocks

2010-09-14T18:19:00.001-07:00

I'm excited to announce a new book - all about you! 1.6 Million African American Quilters is a handy, eye-opening booklet about today's Black quiltmakers:

- You'll find the latest quilt industry figures from the Quilting in America Survey, including the number of Black quilters nationally.

- The most comprehensive resource of websites, blogs, and YouTube videos featuring African American quilters and guilds - more than 270!

I was amazed by the variety and passion for quilting that you see online! There are 35 guilds listed. You'll find links to Sistah quilters in the US, the UK, Tanzania, Nigeria, and more! Can you name 10 African American male quilters? Find their websites in the booklet! Also included are selected textile artists, dollmakers, fabric designers, and quilters from the African diaspora.

- Six afro-centrically designed art quilt blocks by Washington, D.C. artist Francine Haskins, who is also a member of the Black Artists of DC organization. I hope you'll enjoy these blocks as quilt or redwork embroidery patterns. I'm happy to post your completed blocks here on the Black Threads blog! By the way, Francine also illustrated the book cover! Didn't you just want to pull up a chair and sew!?

- Bibliographic references, many annotated, for selected books, articles, exhibit catalogs, dissertations, papers, and films about Black quilters. I've also included the wonderful self-published books by guilds and quilters. And... in a new category... this booklet includes references to several Sistah quilters who have donated materials (papers, exhibit catalogs, photos, quilt patterns) about their quilt-making to different museums nationally. How cool and inspirational is that!?

1.6 Million African American Quilters is all about documenting and encouraging networking. I hope you enjoy it. I hope your personal copy becomes dog-eared and filled with scribbled notes indicating which sites you've visited, new quilter friends you've met. I hope the booklet's spine becomes bent from having photocopied the art quilt blocks. I hope you see yourself in the pages. It is truly an honor to declare - there are 1.6 Million African American Quilters today!

Black Threads Press, 62 pages, $9.95 - Available on Amazon.com. Enjoy!

John Sims labors with Amish Quilters

2010-09-05T17:06:00.000-07:00

Are you familiar with the quilts of John Sims? In this photo from 2005, he and a few Amish quilters are sewing on the piece "Civil Pi Movement." John Sims specializes in math-based quilts. In 2008, he exhibited 13 quilts in the show Square Roots: A Quilted Manifesto. Read an interview with him by noted art curator A. M. Weaver on the BOMBlog. Enjoy!

Alliance of African American Art Quilters - new national organization

2010-09-05T16:50:00.000-07:00

Dr. Carolyn Mazloomi recently announced the formation of the Alliance of African American Art Quilters, a group of professional studio artists and historians dedicated to exhibiting quilts and recording and preserving African American quilt history. If you are interested in joining, please contact Dr. Mazloomi directly at 5481 Oldgate Drive, West Chester, OH 45069 or DrMaz4WCQN@aol.com.

Jae Jarrell's Urban Wall Suit, ca 1969

2010-08-22T21:18:00.000-07:00

This righteous "Urban Wall Suit" was stitched by textile artist and clothes designer Jae Jarrell ca. 1969.

According to David Lusenhop, an independent scholar who focuses on the Black Arts Movement, "This garment was exhibited in the first AfriCOBRA exhibition at the Studio Museum in Harlem in 1970. Jae plays off traditions including quilting, graffiti, and high fashion... It's an important work, and represents the extension of the AfriCOBRA ideas in to the street, where one can represent in public, and not just in visual arts venues like museums and galleries."

Now my appetite is whet to learn more about Ms. Jarrell and about AfriCOBRA! Do you know much about the movement? There's a Fans of AfriCOBRA on Facebook - have a look at the nearly 100 photos. I wonder where the Urban Wall Suit is today. Do you think quilted fashions can make such a political statement today? Do tell! Enjoy!

Photo courtesy of the Azzi-Lusenhop Black Arts Movement Collection, Chicago. Thanks Mr. L!

African American Quilt and Doll Guild - October with Rachel Clark

2010-08-22T21:00:00.000-07:00

The African American Quilt and Doll Guild in Warrensville Heights, Ohio invites you to attend the "Inspirations, Visions and Traditions" Quilt and Doll Show October 15 - 15, 2010. The guest teacher and lecturer is Rachel Clark. For more details visit the guild's website at www.aaqdg.org.

Henry Holmes: Fabric of Love - Imaginations of Portrait &Traditional Quilts in Baltimore

2010-08-14T08:08:00.000-07:00

I'm always amazed to learn about the works of other quilters! On exhibit August 12 - 28, 2010 in Baltimore, Maryland is "Henry Holmes: Fabric of Love - Imaginations of Portrait and Traditional Quilts." If you are nearby, visit the Creative Alliance at the Patterson. There are 24 pieces in the show. According to the promo materials:

Henry Holmes’ quilts tell stories that are at once deeply personal and speak broadly to the African American experience. Dorothy Dandridge is self-possessed and flirtatious as she smiles at you over her bare shoulder. Elsewhere, a group of plantation workers appear not as broken figures from a distant past, as the embodiment of urban cool.

Henry Holmes lives in Baltimore, but is a native of Harlem. If you can not visit the exhibit, take a moment to visit his website at HenrysArts.weebly.com or click here to see a quick 30 second video of his quilts on YouTube. Enjoy!

"20 Years of a Pieceful Passion" African American Quilters of Baltimore

2010-08-09T04:16:00.001-07:00

If you are in the Baltimore, Maryland area, do stop by the James E. Lewis Museum of Art at Morgan State University and visit the exhibit "20 Years of a Pieceful Passion." The quilt here, Signifyin' by Barbara Pietila, is just one example of the rockin' work you'll find! The show is there from August 7 to September 30, 2010. Click here for details on the quilting workshops that will be available. Enjoy!

Which book cover would you have selected?

2010-08-09T03:43:00.000-07:00

Thought you would get a kick out of these two images. Graphic designer Chad Snyder was responsible for the layout and cover design for my book Martha Ann's Quilt for Queen Victoria. I had three book covers to select from. Here are two of them. Which one would you have selected - the pink or the green? Enjoy!

Cambridge Textile Artist Sandra Scott

2010-07-27T19:14:00.000-07:00

WOW! Cambridge, England textile artist Sandra Scott stitched the quilt in the photo. WOW! Sandra shares on her blog that her "work is a reflection of who I am as a mother, wife, teacher and artist. I enjoy experimenting with new art materials and gadgets." Take a moment to visit Sandra's blog and give a shout out to this sistah quilter in England! Enjoy!

African American Quilt Circle wins 2010 Indies Art Award

2010-07-26T02:50:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the African American Quilt Circle (Durham, NC) for winning a 2010 Indies Art Award for their extraordinary community contributions! The award is from the local community newspaper. The guild has about 60 members. Click here to read the newspaper story. Enjoy!

Going Green: Re-Purpose, ReCycle & ReUse

2010-07-07T02:00:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendar! The Ebony Stitchers Quilt Guild is hosting an exhibit, Going Green: Re-Purpose, ReCycle & ReUse, featuring their quilts and the works of Gees Bend Quilters Tinnie and Minnie Pettway. Visit the Porter Sanford Art Center in Decator, GA from July 22 - 25, 2010. Click here to learn more about the quilt classes you can take. Enjoy!

Militant Needles - 1984 Quilt Exhibit

2010-07-04T00:34:00.000-07:00

Going through old files, I came across this photocopied program quilt historian Joyce Gross sent to me. It's for "Militant Needles: An Exhibit of Slave-Made Quilts" curated by Gladys-Marie Fry, Ph.D. The 1984 exhibit featured eight quilts:

Floral Quilt, 1852, stitched by a slave called "Yellow Bill"
Eight-Petal Flower or Snowflake Quilt, early to mid-19th c., owned then by Mrs. Irma Koski of Arlington, VA
another Eight-Petal or Snowflake Quilt, also owned by Mrs. Koski
Tulip Quilt, circa 1850, collection of Mrs. Mildred Guthries, Snow Camp, NC
Holly Quilt, mid-19th c., collection of Dr. Fry
Carolina Lilly Quilt, 1847 - 1852, Collection of Bonnie Cooper Banks, Shaker Heights, OH
North Star Quilt, also 1847 - 1852, Collection of Bonnie Cooper Banks
Strip Design Blanket, circa 1890, collection Kenneth Combs, Cleveland, OH

I sometimes wonder why I'm so driven to keep these bits of paper documenting African American quilt history. Then, I re-read this program on July 4th about "Militant Needles" and slave-made quilts and know it's worthwhile! Happy July 4th!

Quilter Sherry A. Byrd's new Blog

2010-07-03T01:56:00.000-07:00

Sistah quilter Sherry A. Byrd has launched a blog featuring stories of her quilts and family. Sherry is "a descendant of the slave Edward "Ned" Titus who was brought to Freestone County (TX) in the year 1852." The Titus Family includes six generations of quilt makers! Visit the blog at QuiltStoriesBySherryAnn.blogspot.com. Do take a moment to visit and leave a welcoming comment. Enjoy!

Teri Gandy Richardson - Denim Textile Works

2010-07-02T10:20:00.000-07:00

Can I introduce you to the work of Teri Gandy Richardson? She's a painter and textile artist and graduate of Cooper Union. Her recent works, including "Squeeze" in the photo here, focus on denim. In an artist statement, she writes "Denim in blue - the archetypal color for mother, comfort, nurturing and healing... Denim's texture and historical content move me to create shapes and surfaces that though sometimes whimsical and unexpected, reiterate some memory of our past." Visit her website - TeriRichardson.net - and be amazed! Enjoy!

Arbie Williams and the Britches Quilt

2010-07-02T08:39:00.000-07:00

The tradition of quiltmaking with blue jeans is demonstrated in the works of Arbie Williams, a 1991 National Heritage Award-winning artist. The photo here is of the 14-page "Arbie Williams Transforms the Britiches Quilt" exhibit catalog by Eli Leon (1993, Mary Porter Sesnon Art Gallery). Enjoy!

Latisha Horton offers new Alphabet Girl Fabric on Spoonflower

2010-06-12T20:44:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to graphic designer Latisha Horton on the introduction of her "Alphabet Girl" fabric on Spoonflower.com. I can see this print as a border on a quilt - or even a lovely sundress for a little girl! Enjoy!

Kweli introduces Black Wedding-themed Fabric

2010-06-12T20:15:00.000-07:00

Over at Kweli's African American Fabrics blog, she has announced the introduction of a new Ethnic Wedding Fabric collection. Yellow, pink, and pale blue colorwaves are available. Enjoy!

Dr. Heather Williams - Through Her Hands

2010-06-10T18:05:00.001-07:00

The North Carolina Arts Incubator recently had on exhibit "Through Her Hands - 11 African American Narrative Quilts by Artist Heather Williams." She is an associate professor in the History department at University of NC, Chapel Hill. One of her quilts was featured on the cover of her book, Self Taught: African American Education in Slavery and Freedom. The exhibit was on from Feb - March 2010. It looks to have been a fine show! Enjoy!

Turn your Blogger blog into a book!

2010-06-01T04:35:00.000-07:00

Ok - in just 20 mins I was able to upload the Black Threads blog and see it online as a book that can then be printed! WOW! The service is called SharedBook. I learned about it from Blogger Buzz.

Here is the cover of the book- automatically taken from the first post I had on Black Threads. This book includes all my 549 posts and comments. I've read there is a feature to allow me to edit the posts, but I haven't located it. Anyway, the historian in me wants the entire blog. The service provides about two dozen cover templates. You can get your blog as a hardcover or softcover. If you have a Blogger blog, you might try the service. I'll let you know what I think when the book arrives. Enjoy!

Update: I rec'd my book and it is WONDERFUL! If you have a blog, it is a much different experience to see the blog in book format. My book was about $180 - but it is also 425 pages and includes all my posts since 2006 through May 2010 - including comments. The book is sturdy - the pages are white and heavy stock to show the color photos in best light. One thing I noticed is that no images from video posts were included. The post are printed, just not the video image. Overall, however, I was completely pleased with the quality of my blog as a book! What a way to document quilt history!

Here's what I've learned in the process. The Blog2Print SharedBook service is very easy to use. If you have a blog by Blogger, Typepad, or Wordpress, you can use the service. You input the blog URL, decide what date range to include in your book, decide whether to include comments or not. The service can automatically format the pages to maximize page layout (I did this - and it looks great!). By default, the first two photos in your blog will be used for the front and backcover photos - or you can select your own cover photos. The service has a simulator that shows you what the interior pages will look like. The entire process for my book - all 549 posts - really was about 20 mins! Enjoy!

LaVerne Kemp - the Warped Weaver

2010-05-30T09:34:00.000-07:00

Have you visited LaVerne Kemp's blog, the Warped Weaver? Pictured here is her "Sweet Potato Pie" handwoven quilt. Over this holiday weekend, take a moment and be amazed at her artwork and those of her sister quilters, weavers and textile artists! Enjoy!

Aisha Cousins' Obama Skirt Project

2010-05-27T17:37:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn artist Aisha Cousins, inspired by our African sisters who wear clothes promoting local and national politicians, is sporting six different President Obama fabric fashions for a year as part of her Obama Skirt Project. You can follow her on the project's blog. You can also enjoy one of the project's videos - this one features the strong voice of Carla Kelly singing My Country Tis of Thee. Enjoy!

Brother Quilter - Ken Ellis - have you seen his quilts!?

2010-05-24T04:17:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Gwen for introducing me to quilts of Chicago artist Ken Ellis. Have you seen his quilts? Ellis has been quilting for more than 20 years. According to the ChicagoReader,

"Ellis learned to sew from his father, a maintenance engineer, while growing up on the Gold Coast, and he's always painted. He's also a big history buff. But it wasn't until after stints at the Chicago Academy for the Arts, the School of the Art Institute, and Columbia College that he combined the three interests. "I got fed up with school and went to work in a punk bar," he says. The bar was the famous La Mere Vipere, where he met his ex-wife, Marilyn. She turned him on to fabric dye, which she used to color T-shirts and pillows. The dye was brighter and more durable than oil paint, "which is on a layer of gesso and can crack and peel off," says Ellis. "My dye is part of the fabric and will be there as long as the fabric is there."

You can see more of Mr. Ellis' quilts at the Anatomically Correct website. Click here to see quilts from his "Sewing the Seeds" exhibit. So - what do you think of his quilt!? Enjoy!

Elizabeth Keckley Walking Tour in DC

2010-05-24T04:01:00.000-07:00

Nineteenth-century sistah seamstress and quilter Elizabeth Keckley (sometimes Keckly) is hosting a 90 minute, 1.5 mile walking tour in Washington, DC - starting at the Ford's Theatre. Mrs. Keckley, played by actress Danielle A. Drake, "tells the story of her friendship with the Lincoln family and of her efforts to help former slaves find their way in the newly free city of Washington." Enjoy!

A Legacy of Twelve - Poems by Quilter Dorothy Montgomery

2010-05-15T04:19:00.001-07:00

Have you had a chance to read South Carolina quilter Dorothy Montgomery's 58 page poetry booklet "A Legacy of Twelve: Notes from a Musical Scale Create Many Styles of Music"? Her 2006 book includes images of five of Miss Montgomery's quilts - including this one on the book's cover. The poems mostly focus on musical themes as Miss Montgomery is a retired music teacher. My favorite poems are the two about Harriet Tubman. Enjoy!

Stitched - Stop Action Sewing Machine Video

2010-05-09T14:27:00.000-07:00

Saw this video minute and a half video over at sistah quilter Cheryl Sterling's blog A Needle Quickly Through Cloth. Enjoy!

Zuri Quilting Guild of Nashville Exhibits at Airport

2010-05-02T21:48:00.000-07:00

Flying through the Nashville International Airport between now and May 31, 2010? Cruise on over to Concourse A, across from Gate A-3 for the exhibit "Sistahs of the Cloth: Pieces Together Our Past While Keeping Ourselves in Stitches" featuring quilts by the Zuri Quilting Guild of Nashville. If a trip to Tennessee isn't planned, do visit the Zuri Quilting Guild blog. Enjoy!