Gateway Spotlights Appalachian Culture
, - August 24, 2009
The rich traditions of Appalachian culture have influenced music, arts, crafts and literature for centuries. Gateway Community and Technical College is spotlighting the Appalachian heritage through a Saturday morning series of arts and crafts workshops. The events are free and open to the public.
“The series is a celebration of the contributions of Appalachian culture,” said Melissa Fry, associate professor of English and series producer. “We are offering these events in connection with a literature class examining Appalachian women’s literature. A generous grant from the Kentucky Foundation for Women allows us to bring in guest artists and conduct activities that make the readings come alive for the students.
“The workshops with local artists and guest speakers go even further to help dispel myths and stereotypes about Appalachian people,” Fry added. “Participants will have the opportunity to experience voices and hear stories that have long been silenced, perhaps finding their own connection to home and place along the way.”
The series consists of seven events, all scheduled from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Room E101 at the Student Services Center on the college’s Edgewood Campus, 790 Thomas More Parkway.
Events include:
Oct.3: Viewing the documentary, The Queen Family, and the film, Songcatcher
Oct.24: Discussion of Appalachian folk remedies and healing with guest Gwynne Gabbard
Oct. 31:Storytelling with Gateway employee Marlene Jump and quilting with Joan Peoples (Reservations needed)
Nov.7: the film, The Dollmaker
Nov.14: Dollmaking with Marlene Jump (Reservations needed)
Nov.21: Weaving with Marlene Jump (Reservations needed)
Dec.12: Display of student art projects with Appalachian folk music and dancing provided by Jesse Berne
For more information, contact Fry at (859) 442-1179, melissa.fry@kctcs.edu. Please confirm attendance for Oct. 31, Nov. 14 and Nov. 21 so sufficient supplies can be available. |
