There are some interesting blogs on my blog reading list. Two of them are quilt blogs. One because I love the art of what she creates (Allie's In Stitches) and the other because she discusses the history of black quilters (Black Threads). Both are fascinating to me.
Several months ago, Kyra sent me a copy of her book, "This I Accomplish: Harriet Powers' Bible Quilt and Other Pieces" It has taken me a few months to read through it because it is an engaging history of Harriet Powers, her quilts and the journey she makes. It is a well-documented book, full of historical references, books and exhibits. Quite frankly, the only books on quiltmaking that I've ever read were technique books so this one was interesting because it is a historical journey.
Harriet Powers was born in 1837 as a slave. Was freed in 1872. She was a wife and mother of 9 children. She made 4 memorable quilts. She exhibited and won an award for her quilts and Kyra's book thoughtfully examines her work.
If you are interested in the history of black quilters, this is a definite book for you. If you are interested in the history of quiltmaking in America, this is a book for you. And if you are just interested in quiltmaking, this is a book for you.
Kyra, I know it took me a minute to review it but I wanted to read the book in its entirety and give it the review it deserved. Thank you for sharing this with me and I'm thrilled to have it in my sewing library!
...as always, more later!
African-American women have made wonderful contributions to the art of quiltmaking . . . I'm especially thinking about the Gees Bend quilts. If you haven't done so already, you should take a look at these quilts and the stories of the women who made them . . . so inspiring!
ReplyDeleteKyra is an outstanding quilter who has spent a great deal of time researching the history and contemporary aspects of African American quilters.
ReplyDeleteShe's my sister and I'm very proud of her!
peace, Villager
Thanks for the review and very interested in learning more about quiltmaking. Also I read Black Threads and learned of the Gee Bend litigation.
ReplyDeleteThe Gees Bend quilt exhibit is on display locally until the end of the month. Quite an interesting history
ReplyDeleteThat looks like a wonderful book, and her story sounds like it would be a fantastic read.
ReplyDeleteCarolyn, Thank you so much for the mention of the new book and research about Harriet Powers. It still amazes me that her quilts are here more than 100 years after she stitched them... maybe our own sewing pieces will survive as long.
ReplyDeleteBest, Kyra
www.BlackThreads.blogspot.com
That sounds really interesting. I have a soft-spot in my reading heart for interesting non-fiction books and this sounds like something that would totally fit that category. I'll have to check it ou.
ReplyDelete