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Republican Vice Presidential nominee, Sarah Palin has a son with Down Syndrome. Down Syndrome is a genetic defect caused by the presence of an extra chromosome. Persons born with this syndrome have varying degrees of mental retardation and specific physical characteristics. They often have heart and intestinal defects. There is also a positive aspect to Down Syndrome. People with Down Syndrome are generally very happy, loving, and caring individuals.
In 1995, nationally-known fiber artist, Bailey Earith created a quilt to celebrate contributions of people with Down Syndrome. The project entitled "The Down Syndrome Quilt: In Celebration of All That We Are", features a quilt and companion book. The quilt contains 118 squares, each contributed by or for a person with Down Syndrome. These squares came from across the country and were assembled by Bailey in her studio. The companion book contains photos and letters describing the contributions of the individuals represented on the quilt. The stories are poignant and heart-warming.
According to Rebecca Anastasia, who helped coordinate the project, "The Down Syndrome Quilt is a magical melding of old and new. To initiate this project of old-time craft...Bailey posted a note requesting quilt squares to several electronic bulletin boards." Down Syndrome organizations picked it up and the project was born.
The quilt and book were unveiled in Washington, DC at the National Down Syndrome Congress Convention. Since the project was developed over the Internet, this was the first time many of the participants were able to meet. The quilt and book traveled the country for 2 years before being retired. Due to renewed interest, the quilt is being brought out of retirement.
The quilt and book are available for display. Bailey is available to lecture on the history of the project and stories from the quilt. Interested parties can see our web site (http://www.baileyfiberart.com/) regarding either of these opportunities.
In 1995, nationally-known fiber artist, Bailey Earith created a quilt to celebrate contributions of people with Down Syndrome. The project entitled "The Down Syndrome Quilt: In Celebration of All That We Are", features a quilt and companion book. The quilt contains 118 squares, each contributed by or for a person with Down Syndrome. These squares came from across the country and were assembled by Bailey in her studio. The companion book contains photos and letters describing the contributions of the individuals represented on the quilt. The stories are poignant and heart-warming.
According to Rebecca Anastasia, who helped coordinate the project, "The Down Syndrome Quilt is a magical melding of old and new. To initiate this project of old-time craft...Bailey posted a note requesting quilt squares to several electronic bulletin boards." Down Syndrome organizations picked it up and the project was born.
The quilt and book were unveiled in Washington, DC at the National Down Syndrome Congress Convention. Since the project was developed over the Internet, this was the first time many of the participants were able to meet. The quilt and book traveled the country for 2 years before being retired. Due to renewed interest, the quilt is being brought out of retirement.
The quilt and book are available for display. Bailey is available to lecture on the history of the project and stories from the quilt. Interested parties can see our web site (http://www.baileyfiberart.com/) regarding either of these opportunities.
1 comment:
Karen, what a wonderful concept/project! It's great that it will be revived to refocus everyone who sees it on the joys as well as the heartaches and problems of Down Syndrome.
PS: I had not realized you've been quilting for sooooo long.
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