STITCHING STORIES
Threads of Identity: Stitching Stories through Portrait Quilts w/ NTQG
June 1, 2025
Quilting Artist Talk
Chicago, IL - On June 1st, the Heritage Museum of Asian Art hosted Threads of Identity: Stitching Stories through Portrait Quilts where members of the Needles and Threads Quilters Guild were able to present their deeply personal approaches to portrait quilts, detailing their unique inspirations, creative processes, techniques, fabric selection, and sourcing.
The Needles and Threads Quilters Guild brought in four of their members in order to display both the diversity and surplus of projects that they had undertaken. The artists who were able to display their works were Margo Haynes, Ruth Raickett-Roberts, Sheila White, and Kimberly Mosley.
Attendees of all ages were able to digest the stories that were told through the tradition of quilt blocking. No prior experience was required, making the event accessible and enjoyable for everyone-- from seasoned quilters to first-time sewers. The workshop encouraged attendees to explore their creativity through storytelling and cross-cultural exchange, providing a fun and entertaining environment for everyone!
This workshop was part of the Stitching Stories project, where we look to bridge the Black and Asian communities together through the art of textile works, supported by Healing Illinois. Healing Illinois is funded by the Illinois Department of Human Services in partnership with The Field Foundation of Illinois.
ABOUT THE ARTISTS
The Needles and Threads Quilters Guild is a nearly 200 member-driven African American women quilters guild that believes that quilting is more than just a hobby- it's a way of life. They strive to foster a sense of community among their members and to provide opportunities to learn from one another and grow together.
EVENT PHOTOS
