Dorothy Straughter

Shelacked/Branded
fabric and thread
57 x 69 in.

Through triumphs and tribulations many genetically defined groups culminating in only one human race garnered a troubled relationship resulting in a dynamically appalling and inexcusable past. This in your face approach presenting racist stereotypical advertisement depicting African Americans in demeaning caricature spawned great migrations, is part of the American historical landscape. These works show racism in its violence, and misogynistic attitudes that evoke profuse rage. They show innumerable forms of what is repulsive, hideous, and disgusting. Yet they show the strength of a people who endured through to prosperity.

Displaying these artifacts complete with their preposterous stereotypes, are revolting, yet beautiful. Still, they remain in the thoughts and minds of individuals who harbor fondness for this past as to keep these images and the plight of those they depict as the status. Careful examination helps us reflect this past on to today’s society and shows how Americans need to evolve thought patterns on race relations. We need to inspire future generations to forge for truth in history.

They are all important pieces of an ever- evocative past. Lest we never forget this past only to learn and glean so that we can push rich academic conversation forward about race in America and purge the genetic pain generated by millennia of oppression suffered by lineages of African origin. With respect to variation in thought surrounding this subject matter, we need to own this history and make no excuses for the journey we take to learn and appreciate this part of American history. Analyses that move the conversation forward to resolutions are welcome. Mrs. Straughter’s quilts have been featured in the following venues: Beverly Art Center, Hyde Park Art Center, Art Institute of Chicago, School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Midwest Buddhist Temple and many more.

© Dorothy Straughter