Past Exhibition

A Common Thread: Textiles From Stó:lō, South Asian & Mennonite Communities

Sep 09, 2009
to
Jan 03, 2010
EXHIBITION

This exhibition examines and juxtaposes the quilts and textiles from three specific cultural communities.

It explores the complex stories and meanings that are contained within each of the artworks as a way of sharing their diverse cultural voices.

The Stó:lō weaving tradition, which was almost lost until the 1960’s, is now a part of an international cultural renaissance of Salish weaving. Today Stó:lō weaving contains many beautiful designs each with specific symbols and meanings.

The Mennonite quilts are both functional and emotional providers of family connections; while the quilts literally keep people warm, they are also layered with social and symbolic warmth. Utilitarian objects are elevated through imagination, enterprise and love to the status of an original art form.

The Ralli quilts from the India-Pakistan region date back thousands of years. This humble craft was made with discarded fabrics and is an integral part of the culture. The history and beauty of the rallis themselves attest to the great creative talents of the women of the Ralli.

A Common Thread will initiate a dialogue in an attempt to help define community, encourage connections between communities and share memories and stories through the exhibition of quilts and textiles.

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