In the realm of quilting, where creativity intertwines with tradition, there lies a hidden history waiting for us to uncover—the inspiring legacy of Black cotton farmers. Together, as we journey through the fabric of our past, seeking threads of untold narratives, 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 that weave through each piece created.
With a heart full of gratitude, I want to thank Curated Quilts for being a guiding light in the quilting community. Curated Quilts is a quarterly print publication that provides inspiration and information for quilters, with a special focus on modern quilts and quilt making. Amy Ellis and Christine Ricks, the brilliant minds behind Curated Quilts, have created a platform where diverse voices and stories can shine, sparking conversations that resonate deeply with the essence of our fine craft.
Quilting is more than just a physical creation; it is a spiritual connection to the past, present, and future. My exploration into the world of cotton, particularly the stories of Black farmers who have tilled the land with unwavering dedication, has been one of 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 about self-discovery and recognition.
As we delve deeper into the intricate web of the quilting world, new questions arise—What is the legacy of Black cotton farmers today, and how can we uplift their contributions in modern quilting? How can their cotton be made more accessible to us? The fabric we use carries not just color and texture but also a narrative of struggle and triumph. It is crucial 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 integrating their stories into the fabric of our quilting world, we weave a tapestry of inclusivity, honoring voices that have long been silenced.
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—let us remember the hands that toiled the earth and the stories yearning to be told. And although the sun is setting on Curated Quilts, let us look forward to new beginnings as we walk this path confidently, guided by the light of diversity and the warmth of inclusivity, as we stitch together a quilt of unity and understanding.
In this quilting journey, let us honor the roots that anchor 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 us quilt with purpose, stitch with intention, and weave stories that transcend time and space. For in the fabric of our fine 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)
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