Joan Gaither has led and inspired members of Anne Arundel County’s African American communities to discover their unique power for creative expression through narrative artworks.

Photo by Christopher Becker

The exhibit and recently published book, Trails, Tracks, Tarmac is a powerful example of the collaboration of members of church communities and their legacy of stories revealed through the manipulation of common, ordinary materials in the tradition of quilting.  The resulting artworks, combining conventional methods and contemporary techniques, reveal images of oral history, family traditions, and the role of the church in their communities. The passionate effort of this unique community of artists is a celebration of the fortitude of their forebearers and recognition of the place of their African American community in contemporary Maryland.

More information about Joan Gaither

Ms. Gaither will also conduct a hands on workshop on October 17 at the MAEA Conference. See registration form, enrollment is limited to the first 25 enrollees. She will hold a book signing immediately following her keynote. Her book, Trails, Tracks and Tarmac will be available for sale at the conference.

Photo by Christopher Becker

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