Short Summary

 

I am Torreah "Cookie" Washington, curator of Mermaids and Merwomen in Black Folklore: A Fiber Arts Exhibition, which features the works of over fifty of the country’s premiere African-American fiber artists including internationally known artists Dr. Edward Bostic,  Donna Chambers, Marion Coleman, Arianne King Comer, Michael Cummings, Dr. Deborah Grayson, Dr. Myra Brown Green, Dr. Kim Hall, and Patricia Montgomery.  These artists come together to weave a journey of color and inspiration and to tell the tales of these legendary merfolk.  

An accompanying catalogue, Black Mermaids: In Vision and Verse, invites you to celebrate the relationship between fine craft and poetic verse. The exhibtion dates are:

August 28-October 28, 2012

Mermaids and Merwomen in Black Folklore: A Fiber Arts Exhibition at the City Gallery at Waterfront Park in Charleston, South Carolina.

Exhibiton Opening and Artist Reception, Saturday, September 8, 2012,  5:00-8:00 p.m.

We need to raise funds to pay for transportation and lecturer fees for scholar and African art historian Dr. Henry John Drewal.  There is also a need for additional funds to offset costs related to opening weekend events.

Our Perks include:

• original mermaid sculpture by Everttte White
• Italian, hand blown glass pendants
• Michael Cummings signed Haitian Mermaid poster
• Book: autographed copies of Mami Wata by Dr. Drewal
• Donna Chambers Cameo and earrings
• Exhibition Note Cards with Mermaid Stamps
• Book: Black Mermaids in Vision and Verse
• Complete Mermaid Swag Gift set

The Impact

This exhibit is as much about celebration as it is about re-imaging ourselves as women and girls.  Just think what it would do in the psyches of young girls to see the black faces of mermaids and perhaps find a source of empowerment that asks them to think of themselves in larger dimensions beyond the currrent sterotype of the "hoochie mama". 

Other Ways You Can Help

We have two months to make a difference! While you may not be able to contribute, please take a moment and share this campaign far and wide with friends on Facebook and the world.  Please do spread the word!!

Thank you! Thank you!