Enough is Enough: Stop the Killing | Created by Cynthia Lockhart from Cincinnati, OH.
Enough is Enough: Stop the Killing
Created by:
Cynthia Lockhart from Cincinnati, OH
Exhibit:
Racism: In the Face of Hate We Resist
Artist Statement:
A variety of materials and techniques (collage, silk screen prints, dyed fabric, beading, appliqué, hand painting) are used in this quilt. The prominent eye reveals, with eyes wide open, all the dehumanization and appalling treatment that Black men, women, and children have had to endure in this country for 401 years. The beading and stones surrounding the eye illuminate what has been hidden and not written into American history regarding the contribution of Black Americans.
The collective faces stand for all the vibrant lives lost in our struggle for freedom. Three lines of beaded embroidery surround George Floyd’s profile, depicting his ascension into heaven. A meandering river highlighted with the hand painted text, Black Lives Matter, is at the bottom of
the quilt.
The killing of Mr. George Floyd was witnessed by the world. We all watched the horrifying act of death by police. This inhumane act was captured via cell phone, and the images were revealed to us, over and over again, via every form of communication that exits. We will never forget this scene of four policemen holding George Floyd down. One of the police officers had his knee on George Floyd’s neck. During the 8 minutes and 46 seconds, George gasped for air and stated, “I can’t breathe.” Mr. Floyd repeatedly cried out, “Mamma,” until he died. The world will never forget what we witnessed.
George Floyd’s death was a catalyst for a new global movement for racial justice.
We have seen a veil lifted to expose the stain of hatred that exists against Black people in America. If there was ever any uncertainty regarding racial injustice in America, it was clearly revealed for all to see. Black men, women and children have been victims of atrocities since Black slaves first arrived in America in 1619. America has not been the land of milk and honey for Black people. Millions of Black people have been victimized and killed just because of the color of their skin. America will not continue to prosper until it recognizes that Black Lives Matter and makes atonement for its wrongdoing.
Black people have contributed to make America what it is today by providing free labor, bloodshed, sweat and tears, creativity, major inventions, and medical cures, most of which was not acknowledged. Just imagine what our history would have been if white Americans had not had a knee on our neck for centuries. Despite all the adversity that was put in our pathway; still we rise!
2020
37" x 36"
Mixed textiles; collage, silk screen prints, dyed fabric, beading, appliqué, hand painted.