Flyover Series #5: Chains, Rope, Shame | Created by Bobbe Shapiro Nolan from Eagle Lake, TX.

Flyover Series #5: Chains, Rope, Shame

Created by:

Bobbe Shapiro Nolan from Eagle Lake, TX

Exhibit:

Racism: In the Face of Hate We Resist

Artist Statement:

In 2018, I visited the newly opened National Memorial for Peace and Justice, and the Legacy Museum in Montgomery, Alabama. It was a beautiful, deeply disturbing experience. No one leaves the Memorial without tears. I know about slavery and racial unrest. I was aware there had been lynchings in the Texas counties where I have lived for 25 years. I discovered there had been lynchings in southwest Ohio, where I lived for 15 years, in Albuquerque, where I spent early years, and in the northern Minnesota county where I was born. Prior to this trip, I had begun handwork on a piece of linen rusted with old chains. Upon returning home, I could no longer make a pretty artwork with a chain motif. The work spoke for itself, developed, acquired contrast, embroidery, beads, stones and chains. Finally, there were nooses.

It is not my personal fault, but I am a witness. I am an American. It is our national shame.

2020
37" x 24"
Rusted linen damask, repurposed polyester knit, hemp cording, cotton cording, beads, yarn and threads; hand and machine quilted.