In March, renowned Birmingham visionary folk artist, Chris Clark, visited the First Light weekly art class and brought his amazing hand-sewn story quilts and colorful “Spirit Sticks” to share with participants. His work is in the permanent collection at the Birmingham Museum of Art, the Museum of American Folk Art in New York and the Smithsonian Museum. Chris believes the inspiration for his “Spirit Sticks” came to him in a vision. After relating his touching personal story, our ladies were inspired to paint and decorate tree limbs with bright designs, tribal symbols and interesting objects. The spirit sticks, along with colorful papier mache masks, are displayed in the first floor Women’s Art Gallery. This new installation reflects the imagination and creative energy of our wonderful women.
Marilyn Gross, Art Coordinator