Navajo Quilter Susan Hudson Honored by National Endowment for the Arts
The latest article from NPR sheds light on the profound journey of Susan Hudson, a Navajo quilter whose works have garnered national recognition. The piece delves into Hudson’s intricate quilts that narrate the harrowing history of Native American boarding schools and other traumatic chapters in Native American history.
The article underscores Hudson’s unique ability to transform painful family histories into powerful art, earning her honors from prestigious institutions like the National Endowment for the Arts.
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The Artistic Journey of Susan Hudson
Susan Hudson’s studio near Ignacio, Colorado, is often a chaotic mess of brightly colored fabrics and half-finished projects. Hudson describes herself as *disorganized/organized*, knowing exactly where everything is amidst the clutter.
Her latest show quilt, Standing Strong In The Face of Genocide, is a poignant example of her work. This four-paneled quilt tells the story of a Native American boy facing execution, a narrative inspired by Hudson’s dreams and waking visions.
The Story Behind the Quilts
Hudson’s quilts are not just artistic expressions; they are historical documents.
The first frame of Standing Strong In The Face of Genocide depicts a Native American boy in traditional clothing, standing in front of a whitewashed building. The subsequent frames show the boy’s defiance and tragic end, culminating in Hudson’s cursive dedication to the Native children who resisted the oppressive boarding school policies.
Historical Context
Indian boarding schools operated across the US from the late 19th century, aiming to separate Native youth from their families, culture, traditions, and language.
Children were forbidden to speak their native language, wear traditional clothes, or practice their religion. Their hair was cut, and they were given European names.
Hudson’s quilts capture the emotional and physical trauma inflicted on these children, serving as a stark reminder of this dark chapter in American history.
Recognition and Awards
Hudson’s work has not gone unnoticed. Her quilts have been acquired by the Smithsonian’s Museum of the American Indian in Washington, DC, the Heard Museum in Phoenix, Arizona, and numerous private collectors.
In September, Hudson was honored as one of 10 National Endowment for the Arts Heritage Fellows at a ceremony at the Library of Congress.
A Long and Difficult Road
Hudson’s journey with needle and thread began in pain. Her mother, a survivor of the Indian boarding schools, learned to sew under brutal conditions.
This trauma was passed down to Hudson, who initially hated sewing. However, as an adult and single mother, she turned to quilting to provide for her children.
An artistic challenge from former US Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell pushed Hudson to create more original work, transforming her quilts into powerful narratives.
Quilts as Historical Narratives
Hudson’s quilts are rich in detail and symbolism. Her human figures have no facial features, resembling paper dolls.
Each material detail, from beadwork to leather, tells a story. One of her quilts, Tears of Our Children, Tears for Our Children, depicts boarding school trauma, showing children in traditional regalia being transformed into institutionalized figures under the watch of armed soldiers.
Impact and Legacy
Hudson’s work has had a significant impact on the art world and beyond. Emil Her Many Horses, a curator at the National Museum of the American Indian, was drawn to Hudson’s quilt at the Heard Indian Fair and Market in Phoenix, Arizona.
Her quilts’ intricate details and powerful narratives make them valuable additions to museum collections.
National Recognition
Hudson’s success has led to national recognition.
Receiving the National Endowment for the Arts award was a moment of both irony and triumph for Hudson. In her acceptance speech at the Library of Congress, she poignantly remarked on the atrocities committed by Congress against Native people, while also expressing gratitude for the award.
Sharing Hard Truths Through Soft Mediums
Hudson’s quilts serve as a medium to share hard truths about Native American history. She has found a way to articulate the stories her family members only whispered about.
Through her art, Hudson continues to educate and remind future generations of the injustices faced by Native American communities.
For a deeper understanding of Susan Hudson’s work and her recognition by the National Endowment for the Arts, you can read the full article on NPR: Soft, Medium, Hard Truths: National Endowment for the Arts Recognizes a Navajo Quilter.
