Is this the ultimate piece of American Folk Art?  It seems to be the most inclusive.  In the 25 years since it originated, the AIDS Memorial Quilt has grown to incorporate 94,000 names on 48,000 panels covering 50 miles.  100,000 people have been involved in the sewing, embroidering, stitching & overall creation of this essential piece of remembrance.  And The Names Project, custodians of the Quilt, continue to receive a new panel or two each day.  Being entirely hand-sewn, the quilt is fragile.  Therefore a corp of “Handmaidens of the Quilt” carry out repairs and oversee its longevity.   There is no cost whatsoever to submit a panel, though contributions are truly appreciated – it takes about $250 to incorporate a panel into the quilt, not to mention other costs.

Beyond the physical beauty of the quilt is the fact that it brings so many people together without regard to race, class, gender or age.  It also provides an eternal remembrance and respect for tens of thousands who died before their time.  Their inclusion here accentuates the point that casualties of the epidemic were true individuals – not just statistics.  As people around the world continue to be diagnosed positive, it is essential that we connect with one another without borders or preconceived ideas.  The Quilt is a catalyst in breaking down barriers.  Go and see it while you can – portions of it are on display in Washington, DC through the month of July..

Smithsonian Folk Life Festival:  June 27th – July 8th

On the National Mall (through the XIX International AIDS Conference):  July 21st – 25th
8,800 panels will be on display & the name of each person included will be read.  The organizers of Quilt 2012 desperately need VOLUNTEERS, especially readers!  Click here to help them out:  AIDS Memorial Quilt Volunteer Registration if you are local or will be in the DC area through this time.

If you can’t make it to DC, portions of it will also be displayed in Atlanta, San Francisco, Philadelphia, Durham, New York City, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Central Florida over the coming months – often into December.  Click here for a schedule.

NPR did a lovely 7 1/2 minute report about the Quilt on July 4th.
Click to listen via:
The Takeaway/WNYC/AIDS Quilt