Threads That Bind is a two-part project about remembrance and how we can memorialize those we have lost through death. The paradox that surrounds death is that we are all missing the dead but also unwilling to talk about them in our daily life. In our culture, there tends to be a feeling of taboo or morbidity surrounding death, therefore we shy away from conversations about the death of a loved one.

Part one of Threads that Bind is a collection of printed textiles and stitched remembrance works of art by Dawn Zero Erickson. This collection of very personal textile pieces by Dawn are in memory of people from her life. While researching, creating, and performing the multitude of repetitive steps in making these pieces, Dawn had time to cherish memories of each of these people who continue to be a prominent part of her life - a joyful sorrow.

In part two of the project, Dawn led community members through workshops of meaningful making to slow stitch a remembrance for someone they have lost through death, while learning and practicing new techniques. Participants selected a small token from their loved one to include in their piece; such as buttons, textiles, cookie cutters, game pieces, a key, and jewelry. As participants designed and stitched a tangible connection to the past, a multitude of stories and memories were exchanged.

The collective stitched remembrance pieces in this exhibit bring beauty to the sadness.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts & cultural heritage fund.

Community participants:

Kris Anderson, Lori Cashman, David Einheber, Karen Ellingson, Bradley Erickson, Kirstin Erickson, Lisa Rydin Erickson, Catherine Fenner, Peg Hansen, Vicki Heschke, Sarah Honeywell, Susan Johnson, Joy Krajna, Kim Lampe, Paige Lampe, Clare Larkin , Mary Lura, Ruth Ann McLaughlin, Kasi Nelson, Verna Nickel, Shawn Niebeling, Hannah Quinn, Matt Quinn, Molly Quinn, Susan Richardson, Jeanna Sands, Trudi Schaefer, Kris Toegel, Ann Viveros, Ren Hai Yan

Please join us for a Public Reception Saturday, November 2nd, 2 - 4 pm
Red Wing Arts Depot Gallery