Laura Gadson

If You See Me On The Block
Year: 2007
Medium: Quilt; Fabric, thread, pigment
Dimensions: 20 " x 27"

Artist Statement:

I started homesteading in Harlem before it became popular. Bought my little piece of the pie back in the early 90's "as is" and it is still a work in progress. Many folks thought I was ambitiously crazy - even the locals. Not having been born and raised on the block I was considered an outsider and even gave druggies their due, acknowledging them as my predecessors. Still, I had to stake my claim and let folks know that my Queens Girl morals would not keep me from acting a fool if necessary. Even now if you come through the block you might catch me on the top of the stoop, hair uncombed, hands akimbo (on my hips), and making my small presence known to the community.