African American fiber artists from across the nation are invited to participate in the 18th Annual African American Fiber Art Exhibition – “In Praise of the Ancestors,” a component of the 2025 North Charleston Arts Fest. Ancestor worship is a central custom of African religion and is practiced throughout the African diaspora. In addition to their deep reverence for elders, followers of traditional African religion believe the ancestors maintain a spiritual connection to and powerful influence on their living relatives, and their wisdom is considered invaluable. No matter your culture or background, the act of honoring ancestors is sacred, and we can all benefit from recognizing and respecting our lineage. This year’s theme aims to honor legends of the Diaspora, known and unknown, who’s lives and sacrifices gave birth to our many celebrated accomplishments and have brought us to this place.

Artists may choose to highlight a figure from our collective African American history, or from their own family’s history. From tales of slavery, racism, and fighting for our basic human rights, to finding our heritage and values, fiber pieces in this 18th annual exhibition will cover a vast range of topics that have great significance for the African American community. Read the exhibition parameters carefully.

Terms and regulations must be followed exactly or entries will NOT be accepted. This exhibition is organized and presented by the City of North Charleston Cultural Arts Department and curated by award-winning master art quilter and curator Torreah “Cookie” Washington. Participation is open to African American artists residing in the US, ages 18+, working in the medium of fiber. Pieces with pre-printed fabric panels will NOT be accepted. Artists may submit up to four entries. Two entries per artist may be selected.

**NOTE: Artwork DOES NOT have to be complete at the time of application submission. Artists may upload progress photos if the piece(s) are not finished by the application deadline. If selected, pieces must be received by April 7.** Following the close of the show, up to 20 works will be selected to tour the state through the South Carolina State Museum’s 2025/2026 Traveling Exhibitions Program. Sites across SC may request the exhibit to tour in their facilities, thus providing additional exposure for the artists.