Racism Exhibit

I have recently finished two pieces to be included in an upcoming exhibit by the group Fiber Sisters of Hope entitled "Racism: A Dialogue in Art Quilts". I have included the artist statements for each. Both have machine and hand stitching in varying degrees. The piece on Haiti measures 25" x 26" and the Faces piece is 21" x 28". I find myself working bigger and bigger. Maybe I'm just weary of people asking if I'm creating potholders and table runners. :)

“HAITI GIRL: BUT WHERE WERE THEY BEFORE?”
Upon learning of the tragedy in Haiti I began to delve into imagery of the land and people of the country. The history of Haiti is fraught with occurrences of acts against its people based on race. While reading many articles about countries coming to the rescue of the many people in need I could not get the thoughts of the children of Haiti and what their perceptions must be out of my mind. Many lived in very difficult conditions prior to the disaster and suddenly they are barraged with strangers coming to help afterward. The feeling of confusion they must have felt captured me and continues to do so.

 “THE FACES OF ADVOCACY, ACCEPTANCE, AND APPRECIATION”

We are often reminded of our own struggles to get along as people on the same planet, both on a worldwide level and in our day to day lives. In this struggle, I think some lose sight of the idea of educating each other with the end goal of being at peace. It is easy to strike out in anger and make assumptions of others. It is much more difficult to react with acceptance and educate. When one does so, the end result is appreciation by all.