by I attended the Folklife in the South Conference in Lake Guntersville, Alabama in June 2023. It was a gathering of community leaders, folklorists, traditional artists, educators, documentarians, and other cultural workers. We came together to hear the stories of work in the field, explore different avenues of folklife in the South and to meet and mingle with like minded people.
The three days were full of opportunities, presentations, stunning views, and the arts. I took notes at the sessions I attended and will attempt to recap for you now.
Alabama Textile Traditions
This panel of women spoke to Alabama’s long history of women working within both the formal and informal economies to provide for their families through sewing.
Fiber arts have long been a source of creativity, a declaration of self-determination, and a cornerstone of care.
photo from Recycled Runway 2023
Bib and Tucker Sew op
This business is unique not only in teaching the fiber arts, but being advocates for the industry and women. Recycled Runway is a program for Birmingham Middle and High School students. Their fashion show was in April, all items made from repurposed materials.
The March Quilts began in 2015 to commemorate the march from Selma to Montgomery marches. They decided to repeat it each year. Members choose a civil or human rights theme and facilitate open sewing sessions and discussion.
Viola Ratcliff, program manager, 205-386-0575 viola@bibandtuckersewop.org
Black Belt Treasures Arts and Culture
This is a nonprofit business in Camden, AL. They began in order to stimulate the economy with heritage arts and culture. They represent over 450 different artists.
One of the things I loved to see was the rehabilitation of an old car dealership where they now hold their classes. It’s a fabulous idea. There are many empty car dealerships in small towns, this is a great way to use the space.
Loretta Bennet
Loretta is an artist who said, “I was quilting before I was born.” She’s one of the quilter
