In November 2004, I initiated “AN ARMY OF LOVERS CANNOT FAIL,” an on-going series of quilting forums organized in homes, galleries, gardens and other public settings. I see the history of family and community quilting as harnessing possibly the foremost political activities: community-building and dialog, creating a sense of belonging for those who participate. The quilting forums are symbolic of the same ideals upheld by my own queer community. While redefining these traditions, “AN ARMY OF LOVERS CANNOT FAIL” brings the spirit of this shared experience to an extended community.
Also considering historically outdated modes of production, this quilt has been in progress for over two years, and will require at least one more year to completion. Thankfully, the end product is not the piece, but rather the process—the informal gatherings and invaluable dialog between friends and strangers.
