African American Fabrics: "Movement" in the Studio

Niagara Movement Fiber Art by Kweli Kitwana (c) 2011

There's "movement" in the studio.  I am working through a few new techniques with digital textile images using cotton and silk. The results are fascinating. Remember how I declared in a previous post, that I'd put almost anything through my sewing machine? Well, turns out I have the same methodology when it comes to experimenting with the printer.

I am digitally and by hand manipulating vintage photos. This photos depicts the Niagara Movement, the first major civil rights organization of the 20th century. Founded in 1905 by Dr. W.E.B. DuBois this group was the forerunner to the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Determined to take their rightful place in society, members demanded equal enforcement of the law for all races and active political involvement at all levels of society. The group’s 1906 meeting, the first on American soil, was held on the campus of Storer College, now part of Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. This three day gathering was later described by W.E.B. DuBois as “one of the greatest meetings that American Negroes ever held.”

I am planning on assembling these (8 1/2" x 11") pieces vertically on twigs with strips of silk and thread. Stay tune....

Niagara Movement Fiber Art by Kweli Kitwana (c) 2011
Learn more about Kweli and African American Fabrics
www.African American Fabrics.com