“The Protest Series grew out of my love of protest music released in the 1960s and 70s – music that inspired people to think, question, and take action. After we entered into war with Iraq, I began to think about what have we learned as a country since Vietnam. Does history repeat itself? Do we need to revisit it? Over time, I’ve expanded into economic and social justice issues. I choose a popular traditional quilt block and pair it with a topic. I challenge myself to find commercial fabric relative to that topic in order to create a roadmap of symbols that prompt the viewer to think about the theme of the work.”
About the artist:
Penny Mateer, artist/activist, works with textiles and recycled materials. Her art is rooted in quilting and embroidery, traditionally thought of as “women’s work.” Drawing from this rich history of creating functional objects intended to provide warmth and comfort, she chooses fabric as her primary material to establish connection through shared experience and spark discussion around current events. Her social practice centers on a community-made public art project to promote voting.
Weisman Art Museum is free and open to the public. No advanced ticket reservations required.
This exhibition is part of Textile Center and Women of Color Quilters Network’s We Are the Story initiative.
Penny Mateer (a collaboration with Martha Wasik) - Fight the Power! #15 Protest Series
Photo by Larry Berman
Weisman Art Museum
333 E River Road
Minneapolis, MN 55455
United States
612 625 9494