Fire is the third and final component of our elemental series premiering at the National Quilt Museum. Previous exhibitions included Primal Forces: Earth and Primal Forces: Wind.
Fire can both create and consume. From prehistory, humans have harnessed the power of fire for protection, cooking, and heat, but have fallen victim to its destructive aspect as well. Recently, around the world, we have experienced some of the most devastating wildfires in recorded history. Yet, the land can still be rejuvenated making way for new growth. In modern times, science and industry have used fire to fuel significant innovations and discoveries. How do you feel about fire?
CALL FOR ENTRY OPEN AUGUST 1-31, 2024
Nnenna Okore is an artist-researcher-teacher who uses artistic practice, pedagogy, and social engagements to address ecological issues. As an internationally acclaimed art practitioner, Okore has been involved in numerous participatory art projects and exhibitions designed to produce dialogue, artmaking, and an awareness of current environmental issues. Working largely with eco-based materials, Okore uses food-based bioplastic materials to create delicate works of art that engender dialogue about waste reduction and sustainable practices in artmaking.
Okore has a B. A degree from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka [N-su-ka), and an MA and MFA at the University of Iowa. Added to numerous national and international awards, Okore is a recipient of the Fulbright Scholar Award and Creative Victoria Creators Fund. Her works have been featured in major exhibitions at the Museum of Art and Design, NY; Museum of Contemporary African Diasporic Art, New York; Spelman Museum of Fine Art, Atlanta; Museu Afro Brasil, Sao Paulo, Brazil; Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, and the Cleveland Museum of Art, among others. Okore’s recent exhibitions include the Bruges Triennial Exhibition, in Belgium and the Chengdu International Biennial in China.
This exhibition will travel until end of 2028. Additional venues will be added when confirmed.
National Quilt Museum, Paducah Kentucky - August/Sept through December 2025 (final dates TBD)
