The 14th annual African American Fiber Art exhibition is open at Brookgreen Gardens. This year’s exhibit asked artists to feature and interpret the Sankofa symbol in their pieces. 

Sankofa, an Adrinka symbol originating from the Akan tribe of Ghana, represents the idea of using past wisdom to help aid in the current moment—or the proverb, “reach back and get it.” Sankofa symbols often feature an ornate heart-shape design, or depict a mythical bird flying forward with its head looking backward at an egg on its back. The literal translation of the word “Sankofa,” according to the Carter G. Woodson Center at Berea College, is, “it is not taboo to fetch what is at risk of being left behind.”

This annual juried exhibit is curated by Torreah “Cookie” Washington and displays works in fiber created by African American artists throughout the U.S. The travelling exhibit features the work of 23 artists and includes 27 pieces of art—three dolls and 24 quilts/wall-hangings. The exhibit is open daily through November 25, from 12 to 4:30 p.m. in the Lowcountry Auditorium. 

The annual African American Fiber Art exhibition gives African American artists a chance to showcase their original and often innovative designs. Each year’s theme is different, creating a dynamic and ever-changing yearly exhibit. -Sam Ikner

Sankofa
Through Nov. 25, 12 to 4:30 p.m.
Murrells Inlet, South Carolina 
brookgreen.org