Piece together how Michael A. Cummings of New York, New York, carries on the tradition of the African griot (storyteller) to transform quilts from utilitarian objects to coveted collectible art collages that preserve the family and cultural histories of generations of African Americans. Cummings stitches the stories of African American life into his quilts with vibrant colors, patchwork, and hand embroidery.

For more on the NEA National Heritage Fellowships: https://www.arts.gov/honors/heritage