'Overseersucker Suit' Takes Home the Judge’s Prize at ArtFields

I made my return to ArtFields after a 5-year hiatus, and it felt as though I was stepping back into a vibrant world that I had temporarily left behind during the pandemic. My experience at ArtFields has always been a remarkable journey, and this year was no exception as I picked up right where I left off. Over the years, I have been incredibly fortunate to perform well in front of the esteemed ArtFields judges. Throughout my participation, I have entered the competition four times and have been honored with five podium appearances. These accolades include the People's Choice Award in 2013, a Merit Award in 2015, another Merit Award along with the People's Choice in 2018, and this year's coveted Judge's Prize. Each recognition has been a testament to my dedication and passion for my art, fueling my desire to continue pushing boundaries in my creative endeavors. However, with the conclusion of this year's festival, I now find myself in a position where I must sit out next year’s competition. I am already looking forward to returning in 2027, where I have every intention of not just participating, but of winning the Grand Prize!

This year's entry displayed 5" x 7" rack cards (fabric samples were attached to the back of each) that best described the piece: "The Overseersucker suit, made from custom designed Overseersucker fabric, replaces the traditional pastel stripes of seersucker with the names of enslaved people from Charleston’s McLeod Plantation. In doing so, it transforms a fashionable symbol of Southern civility into a powerful statement on historical reckoning. The play on words in the title, merging “overseer” (the violent manager of enslaved laborers) with “seersucker,” the "fabric of the South" associated with gentility and refinement, underscores the irony of how the modern plantation image has been whitewashed to obscure its brutal past. By tailoring this fabric into a suit, it forces an uncomfortable but necessary dialogue, quite literally weaving the names of the enslaved into the fabric of history. In both concept and form, Overseersucker redresses history—clothing the present in the truths of the past and ensuring these lives are not just remembered but made transcendent and relevant as their names continue forward into the future."

For those of you who have never had the pleasure of attending ArtFields, let me paint a picture of this extraordinary festival. It is a celebration of creativity and talent that showcases the works of approximately 400 artists hailing from a diverse 14-state southern region. The festival was created by the visionary philanthropist Darla Moore, whose commitment to the arts has profoundly impacted the community. Anchored in her hometown of Lake City, SC, Ms. Moore remains incredibly active in every facet of the festival, tirelessly guiding its growth and evolution. I was fortunate to be one of the inaugural judges for the festival, and now, as it celebrates its 15th year, I can truly appreciate how it has energized this small town. ArtFields has not only provided a platform for new and established artists to showcase their works but has also fostered a sense of community and collaboration among creatives and art lovers alike. The festival has become a beacon of opportunity, drawing a growing audience that appreciates the diverse expressions of art on display. Each year, the atmosphere is filled with excitement and inspiration, making it a must-visit event for anyone passionate about the arts. For more information about the festival:

Overseersucker Suit

Detail of Overseersucker Suit which replaces the traditional striped pattern with the names of the enslaved from the Mcleod Plantation in Charleston, SC.

The Ron McNair Center hosted my display this year.