Photo: WorldBeat Center Director Makeda Cheatom and ;the Center's qulting director, Kim Ballentine-MBA
WorldBeat Center proudly presentThreads of Freedom, the second quilt exhibit honoring the artistry, resilience, and
coded language of African American quilting traditions. The centerpiece of the exhibit features two stunning works by Kim Ballentine Lane, MBA—
WorldBeat Center’s Master Quilter. One of
her featured pieces is a sampler quilt representing patterns believed to have guided freedom seekers on the Underground Railroad. Her second quilt is a powerful new work co-created with community members, incorporating
blocks inspired by key figures and symbols of American freedom movements.
The exhibit also showcases seven additional pieces from talented quilters across the country, ranging from full-size quilts to expressive table runners.
The Underground Railroad was a secret network of safe routes and allies that helped enslaved African Americans escape
to freedom, often at great personal risk. Some believe quilts were used as a visual language to communicate directions,
warnings, or shelter, with specific patterns like the
“Log Cabin” or “Flying Geese” serving as symbols. While the historical accuracy of quilt codes is
debated, their role in storytelling, cultural preservation, and acts of resistance remains deeply significant.
Threads of Freedom opens with a special preview on Thursday, June 19th at
5pm, as part of WorldBeat Center’s Juneteenth Celebration, “Maroon Societies
and Black Seminoles.”
The full opening will take place during the Harriet Tubman Freedom Birdwatch event on Saturday, June 21st, beginning at 9:30am. Kim Ballentine Lane will share the stories behind her quilts at approximately 11am.
Join us for this powerful intersection of
history, art, and community healing.
