Blankets as Art
Quilt making is an art form deeply intertwined with emotion, each stitch a thread of sentiment woven into the fabric. From the selection of materials to the final seam, every step is imbued with feeling. The process often begins with memories and stories, as quilters draw inspiration from their own lives or those of loved ones. As they piece together the quilt top, they may reflect on cherished moments or express complex emotions through the arrangement of colors and patterns. Each square becomes a canvas for emotion, stitched together with care and intention. The act of quilting itself is a meditative practice, offering solace and comfort in times of joy or sorrow. And when the quilt is complete, it becomes more than just a blanket—it becomes a tangible manifestation of love, warmth, and the human experience, ready to wrap its recipient in a comforting embrace.
Discovery: A Collaboration With Oadie Skeans, 2017
Satin, Velour, Printed Corduroy, Dyed Muslin
48”x79”
A reproduction of my baby quilt made in response to the decisions my mother made regarding my care when I was an infant. Oadie Skeans was my Great-Grandmother who made me a quilt when I was an infant.
Attachment Styles: Disorganized, 2019
store bought yarn, wood fence
Hand crocheted blanket created in public spaces throughout the city of Chicago while processing the estrangement from my mom beginning when I was an infant. Hung on a wood fence I made with my Father. This piece reflects the difference they each made on my attachment style that I would later come to understand as “disorganized attachment.”
Oadie Skeans
Discovering my great grandmother's quilt was like unearthing a treasure trove of family history and sentiment. As I unfolded the delicate layers, I felt a connection to generations past, each stitch a testament to their skill and love. The faded patches told stories of long-gone moments, while the intricate patterns whispered of a bygone era. Holding it close, I could almost hear the echoes of laughter and whispered secrets that had been shared beneath its comforting embrace. This quilt wasn't just a piece of fabric; it was a tangible link to my ancestry, a reminder of the enduring power of love and tradition.