Beginnings

fiber, 30" X 42"

Modern humans, homo sapiens, arose in central southern Africa around 200,000 years ago (the oldest modern human remains have been dated to 195,000 years). From caves near the Cape coast have come the earliest unequivocal evidences of artwork (ochre incised with geometric patterns, and shell beads used to make necklaces). These artworks are evidence that by 70,000 years ago humans had developed the ability to think symbolically and to imagine - the abilities necessary to ask the great questions - "Why am I here?" What is my purpose in life?" and "What happens when I die?"

This quilt explores our African origins and the transitions that led to the development of ever complex communities characterized by social hierarchies, moral codes, art, trade, rituals, and belief systems.