What do you get when you mix art, storytelling, and fabric?
You get the incredible work of Faith Ringgold—one 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 them—not in wood—but in fabric.
She called them story quilts.
Ringgold’s 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.
Yep—her story quilt shows children dancing in front of the Mona Lisa.
So, what can your students learn from her?
A lot.
They’ll 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 it’s a celebration.
They’ll see how art can be personal and powerful.
And they’ll love the hands-on project.
Students create their own “quilt” designs using:
- Colored construction paper squares.
- Oil pastels for patterns and details.
- Yarn tassels for a tactile finish.
They’ll draw memories of their own—just like Ringgold did.
No sewing required. Just scissors, glue, and imagination.
You can integrate this lesson seamlessly:
- Use the “Learning From” 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.
You’ll be amazed by what’s possible when kids tell their stories through art.
Creatively yours,
Meet the Masters
Inspire – Educate – Create
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