Despite the restrictions of Covid I recently was able to visit the Art Institute of Chicago to experience the fabric portraits created by Bisa Butler. I’m so thankful for the museum staff and all that they did to make this a safe experience as I was able to walk away with much inspiration!

The Safety Patrol considers the potential of seven children as future caretakers of the world. The central figure’s outstretched arms reinforce his duty to lead and protect. His facial expression registers that he is poised and not afraid of what lies ahead.

Aren’t the fabric combinations amazing and inventive? And do you see the letters OK subtly printed diagonally on the main figure’s shirt? It’s this type of detail that makes Butler’s work so rich to look at.

Butler’s fabric pieces (quilts) are technically about the layer. As a painter this would equal layers of glazes. She mixes the layers with thread drawing and quilting to add detail and texture. I was particularly enamored with the shoes. The layers and details made them so very special..

Story telling is central to the art. This is Survivor and was created in 2018 to highlight the collective power of women, particularly in the face of adversity. This quilt addresses female genital mutilation, portraying a woman who has survived the practice, flanked by two women who wrap her in a cloth, offering protection and support. The title invites the viewer to contemplate the various ways in which one might be deemed a survivor.

*description courtesy of The Chicago Institute of Art

Look how quiet it is in front of the usually crowded area of “The Bean” sculpture. Crazy times! But I’m so thankful for the visit to Chicago and how Bisa Butler’s portraits made me think about history and fiber art.

Like what you’re read? Sign up for periodic emails here. No hard feeling if you need to opt out after giving them a try! Thanks for your interest and support.