Professor of Art and Graphic Design Margo Lemieux and students in her Drawing II course met with residents at Lasell Village for a "Talk of Ages" event on December 3 that focused on story quilts, an art form that combines technical craftsmanship with creative messaging.

The intergenerational event focused on narrative quilter Faith Ringgold's work of symbolism. Ringgold's quilts told stories about her family experiences and cultural history. The quilt patterns of the Underground Railroad were legendary markers for runaway slaves. Participants researched and viewed famous quilt art, such as Ringgold's, and heard from guest speakers Jean and Peter Stringham, two experienced quilters who live at Lasell Village.

The participants discussed how Ringgold's artwork influenced their own self-portrayals in both mental and emotional form, rather than through physical form. The project culminated with students sharing artwork based on the story quilt concept and shared them with the residents.  

John Dixon, director of education at Lasell Village was pleased with the collaboration between the two groups.  

"It is hard to explain, but there is something very rich to the kinds of intergenerational interactions that happen here, because it is a community with genuine respect all around. This event was the perfect example [of that]."

Approximately twelve students in Margo Lemieux's Drawing II class presented their artwork, and five Lasell participants participated in the project's objective.  

The event was organized by Elizabeth Flaig, coordinator of intergenerational and educational programming.