In the quilting world, where creativity intertwines with tradition, a hidden history awaits—the inspiring legacy of Black cotton farmers. Through their labor, these farmers have cultivated not only the cotton for our quilts but also contributed significantly to the quilting tradition. As we journey through the fabric of our past, seeking threads of untold stories, we unveil a tapestry rich in culture, resilience, and significance. The beauty of quilting lies not only in the stitches that bind the fabric but in the stories woven through each piece.
This journey of uncovering forgotten histories has been made possible, in part, by platforms like Curated Quilts. A guiding light in the quilting community, Curated Quilts inspires and amplifies underrepresented voices. Through their quarterly print publication, focused on modern quilts and quilt-making, they bring together stories that reflect the heart of our fine craft. I am incredibly grateful to Amy Ellis and Christine Ricks for sparking conversations that enrich the essence of quilting heritage.
Quilting is more than a physical creation; it’s a spiritual connection to the past, present, and future. My exploration into the world of cotton, especially the stories of Black farmers who have tilled the land with unwavering dedication, has been a revelation. From childhood memories of learning The Old Cotton Picker from John Thompson’s music book series on the piano to contemplating the source of cotton in my quilts, this journey has been one of self-discovery and recognition.
As we explore the complex layers of quilting, new questions arise—What is the legacy of Black cotton farmers today, and how can we uplift their contributions in modern quilting? The fabric we use carries not just color and texture but also a narrative of struggle and triumph. It is essential to reconnect fabric producers with local farmers, especially Black farmers, to honor the tapestry of history that binds us all.
Black cotton is not just a commodity; it is a legacy. It speaks to the resilience and strength of a community often overlooked in mainstream narratives. By celebrating Black cotton farmers and weaving their stories into the quilting world, we honor voices long silenced. The quilting community must take on the responsibility of ensuring these voices are heard.
Curated Quilts’ mission to highlight emerging artists and unique narratives aligns deeply with our quest to uncover the forgotten histories of Black cotton farmers. Through their platform, we have the opportunity to amplify voices that have been muted for too long, creating a space where diversity thrives and stories are cherished.
As we pick our cotton—whether in fabric selections, stitching choices, or the narratives we embrace—we must remember the hands that toiled and the stories yearning to be told. And although the sun sets, perhaps too soon, on Curated Quilts, we must look forward to new horizons, walking this path confidently, guided by the light of diversity and the warmth of inclusivity as we stitch together a quilt of unity and understanding.
On this quilting journey, we must honor the roots that ground us, the stories that inspire us, and the voices that shape us. Thank you, Curated Quilts, for being a trailblazer in the modern quilt world, for amplifying diverse voices, and for embracing the forgotten history of Black cotton farmers with open arms.
Let’s quilt with purpose, stitch with intention, and weave stories that transcend time. For within the fabric of our craft lies the thread of humanity, stitched together by love, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of those who came before us.
"Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave, I am the dream and the hope of the slave."
— Maya Angelou, Still I Rise (1978)
Comments