Bands of Patterns and Color

 I didn't have much time

to search for quilt shops or even

to do much stitching during my little R & R.

This trip was more about

 

 visiting with our daughter Kate and

having fun.

This is who Kate works for:

She is the Collection Manager

overseeing the preservation and

 curating the Seminole Tribe of Florida's 

archaeological collections. 

So while we were there

she invited us to attend

a very special ceremony.

It was the installation of the first judges

for the tribe.

It was held near the Council Tree.

This awesome enormous oak tree is

 located in Hollywood, Fl.

The ceremony was attended by people representing

all of the clans of the tribe.

And what a special treat to be surrounded by

everyone wearing their 

beautiful traditional Seminole patchwork.

Men's shirts with colorful
symmetrical patterns.

Small intricate pieces carefully stitched
and then sewn together with other
bands of pattern and lots of tiny rick rack trim.

Look at all the different designs included in

these beautiful skirts.

Each of these patterns begin with strips of fabric

sewn together to create a strata of color.

This larger piece is then cut into different width increments

to create smaller segments.

These in turn are repositioned
and stitched into patterns.
 I don't know how someone is able to sew on
all of that rick rack so straight.  Beautiful.

These patterns have

 many different names

such as alligator tracks, panther eye,

 diamond back and scared fire.

At the ceremony, there were lots of preschool

children all wearing  their beautiful clothing.

This little girl wanted green shiny fabric

and this little boy must love 

Mater and Lightening McQueen

from the movie "Cars"

There was a recent exhibit at the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum 

 called "It's Not a Costume -  Modern Seminole Patchwork"

Co-curator, Rebecca Fell said,

"We're focusing on the idea of everyday wear and the 

importance of patchwork to culture and history-

that is what ties all of the pieces together.

But our real emphasis for non-Tribal visitors is to

help them understand that the clothing is not a costume.

It is what is worn as part of daily life."

"Patchwork is for everyday wear.

It's Seminole fashion. 

 It's identity."

Until Next Time-