My project Ingrained, speaks to the history of women’s suffrage that paved the way for which I am even able to create art. As a woman, I wanted to honor the craft of quilting and woodworking by remembering all of those who got me here. Not just the women who have fought for my rights, but also honoring my family who have fought for me specifically to get to the place I am today. I am a daughter, granddaughter, cousin, niece, girlfriend, student, mentee, friend, who creates art because I have the support of all of the loved ones I am surrounded by.
I create art for me, but I am able to create art because of them. Each block represents a very important person in my life. I spoke with my family, friends, mentors, about how thankful I am to have their support and love. I asked them to create a design that is a reflection of who they are or something important to them. I took each design and brought it to life through wooden quilt blocks, which I connected together, signifying how each person is connected to my life. Top left to bottom right-
(Grandmother) Shirley Gerstel, (Grandfather) David Gerstel, (Aunt) Stacey Gerstel, (Uncle) Jeff Gerstel
(Bestie) Makayla Smith, (Mom) Jennifer Hancock, (Quilting Mentor) DaNell Jukulen, (Boyfriend) Dennis Lin
(Stepmom) Sara Fortin, (Dad) Doug Dyar, Family Tree, (Piano Teacher) Christina Heald
(Art Teacher) Mr. DiGioia, (Bestie) Jaide Logsdon, (Cousins) Me, Sam, & Tyler, (Bestie) Gaby Erickson
These people are the reason I am graduating with my bachelors degree of fine art. They are the reason I am the person I am today. I have so much love in my heart for each and every one of them. This quilt is a physical memoir in its truest form, a thank you letter of wooden pieces dedicated to those I love, and those who fought for my dreams to exist.
Designs
Documentation
Process
To learn more about the research and manifesto behind the project, click the Position Paper button below.
