How to Go
What: The Journey of Hope in America: Quilts Inspired by President Barack Obama
Where: National Afro-American Museum, 1350 Brush Row Road, Wilberforce
When: Through Dec. 18
Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday
Cost: $4 per person, $1.50 ages 6-10/college students, free for Ohio Historical Society members
More information: (937) 376-4944 or ohsweb.ohiohistory.org/places
Inspiration, stitch by stitch. “The Journey of Hope in America: Quilts Inspired by President Barack Obama” explores the historic election of a black president by bringing viewers a collection of powerful quilts from a wide range of styles: art quilts, folk art and traditional quilts. The exhibit at the National Afro-American Museum and Cultural Center will illustrate a broad range of techniques and materials, including piecing, painting, appliqué, embroidery, dyeing, photography, beading and digital transfer.
This quilt show is curated by internationally known quilt artist, author and historian Carolyn L. Mazloomi. She’s brought together a diverse group of 95 fiber artists representing a variety races, cultures, generations and religions. The exhibit will remain at the museum for a year before touring the country.
“Artists featured in Journey of Hope in America were moved by the historic campaign and Obama’s vision to mark the occasion with a commemorative quilt,” Mazloomi said. “Each quilt is a highly personal statement and a reflection of their shared experience as American citizens participating in the electoral process.”
According to Mazloomi, there are three recurring themes among the works: hope for a brighter future, paying homage to Freedom Fighters in the fight for equality and participation in the voting process. The companion catalogue encourages visitors to read more about the inspiration and meaning of the quilts and the role of quilting in American culture.
“Visible through these quilts are prayers of healing, deliverance, hope and protection,” Mazloomi said.
In general, the exhibition will use a humanities approach to culture by offering a rich experience in the arts and guiding audience members of all ages to reflect on, discuss and explore. Viewers will experience the narrative quilt as an avenue toward understanding the impact of the electing of the first black president.
“This exhibition will appeal to people of all races, ages, genders, religions and political affiliations. Teachers will love the history lessons they can draw from each quilt,” said NAAMCC curator Edna Diggs.
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