State/Territory: Ohio
Carolyn Mazloomi
“My narrative quilts are a soft way to tell very difficult stories of our nation’s history.”
Carolyn Mazloomi
Photo by Rezvan Mazloomi
"Good Trouble" by Carolyn Mazloomi
Carolyn Mazloomi at work on a quilt. Photo by Rezvan Mazloomi
Photo by Rezvan Mazloomi
Double Life by Carolyn Mazloomi
of 6
Elevating the status of quilting as an art form
Carolyn Mazloomi is a well-known artist, curator, and writer who has emerged as a trailblazer, advocate, and visionary in the field, championing the recognition of African American quilts and artists. One of Carolyn Mazloomi’s most notable contributions to the art world is her pivotal role in highlighting the rich heritage and artistic traditions of African American quiltmakers. As the founder of the Women of Color Quilters Network, Mazloomi has worked tirelessly to promote the work of African American quilters, providing a platform for their voices to be heard and their stories to be celebrated. Through exhibitions, publications, and educational initiatives, Mazloomi has helped to elevate the status of African American quilts from craft to fine art, shedding light on the cultural significance and artistic excellence of these often-overlooked works. Through her leadership and mentorship, Mazloomi has fostered a vibrant community of African American quilters, creating a space for dialogue, collaboration, and innovation within the field. She has not only elevated the status of quilting as an art form but also opened doors for underrepresented artists to share their stories and creativity with the world.
In addition to her advocacy for African American quiltmakers, Mazloomi is a prolific artist in her own right, known for her stunning and innovative narrative quilts. Her work, which often explores themes of identity, heritage, social justice, and the African American experience, has been exhibited in museums around the world. Inducted into the Quilters Hall of Fame Museum, Mazloomi is also a 2014 NEA National Heritage Fellow.
What does being a Taproot Fellow mean to you in your practice and community?
Receiving the Taproot Fellowship is validation the work I’ve done in the African American quilt community is meaningful. The funds from the fellowship will allow me to complete works for an exhibition of narrative quilts which focus on racism, class and gender in America. Since many states have laws which prohibit the teaching of these subjects, art has become more important than ever. My narrative quilts are a soft way to tell very difficult stories of our nation’s history.
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