What do you get when you mix art, storytelling, and fabric?
You get the incredible work of Faith Ringgoldâone of our 35 master artists.
She was born in Harlem in 1930. Her mom was a fashion designer. Her great-great-grandmother was enslaved and made quilts by hand.
Faith turned family history into art history.
She painted stories. Then framed themânot in woodâbut in fabric.
She called them story quilts.
Ringgoldâs work is bold, colorful, and full of heart. She painted memories, dreams, jazz, bridges, and civil rights. She celebrated Black joy, imagination, and freedom.
She even danced her way into the Louvre.
Yepâher story quilt shows children dancing in front of the Mona Lisa.
So, what can your students learn from her?
A lot.
Theyâll learn how to:
- Use pattern to create balance and rhythm in art.
- Express memories through visual storytelling.
- Combine paint, paper, and fabric for a layered, textured look.
- Embrace color like itâs a celebration.
Theyâll see how art can be personal and powerful.
And theyâll love the hands-on project.
Students create their own âquiltâ designs using:
- Colored construction paper squares.
- Oil pastels for patterns and details.
- Yarn tassels for a tactile finish.
Theyâll draw memories of their ownâjust like Ringgold did.
No sewing required. Just scissors, glue, and imagination.
You can integrate this lesson seamlessly:
- Use the âLearning Fromâ pages before art day.
- Let volunteers guide the project with step-by-step visuals.
- Tailor it by grade level: from kindergarten to advanced.
- Connect it to history, storytelling, or even literature.
Ready to see what students can do with her inspiration?
Check out the Student Gallery now.
Youâll be amazed by whatâs possible when kids tell their stories through art.
Creatively yours,
Meet the Masters
Inspire â Educate â Create
Dig Deeper:
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