Baltimore Sonnets

My Art in the Time of a Pandemic A look back today. Some of the first textiles I transformed into books were African clothing and textiles.  These textiles were gifted to me by the National Museum of African Art library in Washington, DC.  It was an experimental project in which I transformed textiles into one-of-a-kind hard cover books.  I met with a mentor, a senior Smithsonian art historian, a curator and/or conservationist bi-monthly.  They would review my work and offer suggestions.  At the end of fourteen months, I completed twelve books.  Two of these books are in their permanent collection. *Coronavirus Disease 2019: Update in Maryland- 5/17/2020 38,804 confirmed cases  1,992 deaths    2,816 recovered Update in New York State - 5/17/2020 350,121 confirmed cases  28,232 deaths    61,381 recovered Total in United States: 1,486,757 confirmed cases, 89,562 deaths Total Worldwide: ...

It was so satisfying to visit the National Museum of African Art library on Tuesday, June 25, 2019 and see two of my textile artist's books in their permanent collection. In 2016-17, I created twelve books during an experimental project at the museum's library.  I was given clothing and fabrics from their collection and transformed them into unique books.  My goal was to create functional and beautiful textile books without sacrificing the archival properties. Finding the best archival-grade and durable adhesives, threads, and backings for the textiles took a lot time and experimentation.  Consulting with specialists at the Smithsonian and the Textile Museum about products and techniques was very helpful. It was wonderful to be able to discuss the history of specific types of textiles: How they were made.  What dyes were used.  How they were worn.  When they were made.  Who made them. Many thanks to my mentor, Janet Stanley and...