And Still We Rise; Race, Culture and Visual Conversations opens Oct.12
CINCINNATI – The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center will present its newest special exhibition And Still We Rise: Race, Culture and Visual Conversations beginning Oct. 12. The exhibition narrates 400 years of history through 85 story quilts curated by Carolyn Mazloomi, Ph.D., director of the Women of Color Quilter’s Network. Planned for a national tour, And Still We Rise was organized by the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and Cincinnati Museum Center.
The beautifully handcrafted quilts featured in And Still We Rise created by an international group of artists from the Women of Color Quilters Network (WCQN), narrate the history of the African American experience, capturing the stories of freedom’s heroes, ranging from Frederick Douglass to Mae Jemison to the first African American President. Mazloomi, guest curator and founder of the WCQN, created the exhibition to showcase a diverse range of fiber art techniques combined with storytelling that connects our diverse experiences to create one collective American story.
“And Still We Rise is a breathtaking visual experience,” said C.G. Newsome, president of the Freedom Center. “Each panel captures moments in American history, retelling the story of who we were and what we hoped to become as nation. Visitors will be challenged and inspired as they view history through these story quilts.”
Through the accessibility of their colors, patterns, symbols and style, these quilts reveal stories that enable conversations about sensitive topics from our history, creating open conversation of racial reconciliation in America.
“And Still We Rise gives voices to personal, authentic, and unique histories of African American men and women– from relating painful stories of enslaved ancestors, to highlighting contemporary political leaders and drawing attention to social challenges our nation continues to face today,” said Mazloomi.
And Still We Rise is included with general admission and will be on view through March 29, 2014. In addition to the exhibit, several programs highlighting the art of story quilts and textiles will be featured at the Freedom Center. Sponsored by P&G.
About the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
We reveal stories of freedom’s heroes, from the era of the Underground Railroad to contemporary times, challenging and inspiring everyone to take courageous steps for freedom today. Museum open Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission $12 adults; $10 seniors/students and $8 children, 3-12. Group discounts available with advance registration. 50 E Freedom Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202. 513-333-7500.