Threads of Identity: Stitching Stories Through Portrait Quilts

In this unique presentation, artists will share their deeply personal approaches to transforming photographic images into expressive textile art. Through storytelling and visual examples, they will discuss their inspirations, creative processes, techniques, fabric selection and sourcing, as well as the technical challenges they’ve encountered—and the innovative solutions they’ve discovered along the way.

The event will conclude with an open Q&A, offering the audience a chance to engage directly with the artists.

Artists Bios:

Joyce Weathington– My name is Joyce Weathington, I have been sewing since I was a teenager, I have been quilting for 5 years and have taken an interest in portrait quilting and I love it. 

Dorothy Burge– Dorothy is a multimedia artist and community activist who is inspired by both historic and current social justice issues and has found her activist voice through the art of quilting. Dorothy is a self-taught quilter who began creating fiber art in the 1990s. She comes from generations of quilters from Mississippi. Her ancestors created beautiful quilts from recycled clothing. 

Doris Barnes– I love all things related to sewing and quilting. I started sewing in Mississippi when I was a very young girl. I learned to sew and quilt from my godmother. She patiently taught me how to create unique items. I always make my clothes for work and play. I love the process of creating unique things for me to wear, for my unusual personality. I use non-traditional style patterns and bold colors. I am an award-winning quilter. I quilt seven days a week. There is an empty space in my heart if I go a day without quilting. It is my passion. I teach quilting at my church and make many charity quilts for the sick and the shut-in. 

Accessibility:
The Heritage Museum of Asian Art’s Entrance is on West 35th Street. Take the elevator to the third floor and turn right to the Museum Reception Desk. The museum is wheelchair accessible, accessible and standard toilets are located on the same floor. Audio Description will be available for those who need it. Free parking space is available next to the museum via West 35th Street.

Tickets & Support:

Threads of Identity: Stitching Stories through Portrait Quilts | Heritage Museum Of A

If cost is a barrier, we warmly invite you to email us at info@heritagemuseum.org to reserve a spot—no one will be turned away for lack of funds.

We look forward to making something beautiful with you!