Bennett Middle College Students add STEAM to the art of quilting
Special to the Peacemaker / April 1, 2022
High school seniors at the Middle College at Bennett designed a decorative quilt featuring Science Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) professions with the assistance of Greensboro fabric artist Andrena Coleman and members of the Greensboro (N.C.) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated. Photo courtesy GSO Links, Inc.
The Greensboro (N.C.) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated collaborated with Greensboro fabric artist Andrena Coleman and 23 seniors in the Middle College at Bennett to design a decorative quilt exhibiting artwork created by the high school seniors focusing on Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics (STEAM). The goal of this project was three-fold: to introduce students to the history and importance of quilting in the African American community, to demonstrate how it is produced through coding, and to re-engage generations into the art of quilting.
The theme of this creative endeavor, “STEAM Stitch Story,” was selected to teach the high school seniors about careers and people engaged in STEAM professions, including how they themselves may consider such a career. Each student submitted a design along with a statement regarding why the design reflected an aspect of STEAM and what it meant to her. Designs and statements were printed onto printable fabric. The next step involved students sewing precut borders on their fabric to create personalized quilt blocks. Blocks were assembled and a decorative border selected to reflect the theme of the project, creating a quilt top. The batting and backing were added to complete the formation of the quilt, which was then hand quilted by Andrena Coleman, who collaborated with the Middle College at Bennett students.
A survey was developed to gather students’ input regarding the project, information and skills acquired while participating and students’ continued interest in pursuing a STEAM related profession.
Upon completion, the quilt was unveiled and gifted to Bennett College and it will be on display in the Pfeiffer Science Building on the campus.
Cap
Courtesy GSO Links, Inc.
High school seniors at the Middle College at Bennett designed a decorative quilt featuring Science Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) professions with the assistance of Greensboro fabric artist Andrena Coleman and members of the Greensboro (N.C.) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated.
