I remember the fear of the AIDS epidemic/crisis in the 1980s and as a result, I felt fearful of gay men (which was irrational because the chance of me getting AIDS was minuscule). I then learned a coworker was gay and we were talking about our hopes and dreams for the future. It turned out that we wanted the same things: love, happiness, success. My fear dissolved in an instant. We are human, all of us. And these people have been demonized because of who they loved. Sadly, they still are and the acceptance that we had made in the US is suffering a major setback with the current regime. It’s infuriating and heartbreaking.
thank you for the depth and breadth of this, Katy. for the tears and reminders. the “domestic” arts are subversive in the most glorious way, telling the stories the powerbrokers want to silence. love can’t be silenced. 🧡
Yes. This is such a beautiful reflection, Katy. I’ve seen pictures of the US AIDS quilt; it must be heart rendering to see such work in person.
I am not a quilter, but I’ve inherited a number of amazing pieces. So much care, artistry, and love are woven into these objects.
It reminds me of the fact that Native Americans had no separate word for Art in the European sense. In their cultures , Art was not a thing apart, but literally woven into every part of life.
I am so sorry to have missed this. Lots of my textile friends went and were similarly moved as you were. As I understand it, funds are needed to conserve the quilt and to allow it to be shown more often. The UK Aids Quilt website has further details for those interested.
Beautifully and powerfully put Katy. We lost some lovely people. Our job is to remember them with love. Thank you for writing this.
Thank you for these reflections, Katy.
I remember the fear of the AIDS epidemic/crisis in the 1980s and as a result, I felt fearful of gay men (which was irrational because the chance of me getting AIDS was minuscule). I then learned a coworker was gay and we were talking about our hopes and dreams for the future. It turned out that we wanted the same things: love, happiness, success. My fear dissolved in an instant. We are human, all of us. And these people have been demonized because of who they loved. Sadly, they still are and the acceptance that we had made in the US is suffering a major setback with the current regime. It’s infuriating and heartbreaking.
So beautiful Katy xxxx
thank you for the depth and breadth of this, Katy. for the tears and reminders. the “domestic” arts are subversive in the most glorious way, telling the stories the powerbrokers want to silence. love can’t be silenced. 🧡
Human decency for the win. xx
I didn’t know about this and now I’ve missed it. Thank you for showing me a small part. Like you, I think I’d have cried all the way round.
It was surprisingly quiet, given that it was in the Turbine Hall and we all just sniffed our way around. x
A beautiful, heartfelt description.
Thank you. x
Yes. This is such a beautiful reflection, Katy. I’ve seen pictures of the US AIDS quilt; it must be heart rendering to see such work in person.
I am not a quilter, but I’ve inherited a number of amazing pieces. So much care, artistry, and love are woven into these objects.
It reminds me of the fact that Native Americans had no separate word for Art in the European sense. In their cultures , Art was not a thing apart, but literally woven into every part of life.
I love this. I didn't know that about Native American. It makes perfect sense though. x
I am so sorry to have missed this. Lots of my textile friends went and were similarly moved as you were. As I understand it, funds are needed to conserve the quilt and to allow it to be shown more often. The UK Aids Quilt website has further details for those interested.
Thank you. x