Sacred Memories: Keeping Generational Stories Alive Through Quilts

The Grail is excited to present Sacred Memories: Keeping Generational Stories Alive, the 2026 Art at The Oratory exhibit at Grailville, sharing stories through the art of quilting.

Curated by Grail member Rev. Dr. Renee Wormack-Keels, the exhibit explores how to preserve and express sacred memories rooted in lived experiences, generational legacies, and cultural histories. Joining Renee are fellow fiber artists and Black women Monica D. Scott, Stephanie Rivers, and Miriam Madison-Balfour, representing new (emerging) and experienced quilters who have exhibited regionally, nationally, and internationally.

Inspired by Renee’s own experience sharing her life stories with her grandson, the exhibit asks an important question: How do people who are aging in this country tell and share their stories before they are lost? These memories and experiences are forever woven through the fabric of our lives and passed from one generation to the next through the stories we share. As Renee says, “We’re all storytellers, and we all have stories to tell.”

The opening reception on July 18 from 1 - 4 pm will include opportunities to meet the artists and hear the stories behind their work during an artist talk from 2 to 2:45 pm. While the opening reception is a one-day event, the exhibit of 25 – 30 quilts curated by Renee will remain available for viewing by appointment until September 15, 2026.

Admission is free, and light refreshments will be provided. Registration is appreciated but not required. All are welcome!