The purpose of this project is to create an ongoing and accessible piece of work ensuring that the highest standards of creativity are encouraged and that all the exhibitions of the quilt are presented in an appropriate and professional manner, with the help of an artist sensitive to the issues involved and commited to creative collaboration with the various community and youth groups involved or other interested individuals. The artsts role will sometimes be that of maker, sometimes that of facilitator.

The concept of a quilt project is a common theme in AIDS awareness campaigning and is already well established. The first "Aids Quilt" was initiated in San Francisco in the late 1980's, while in Ireland "The Irish Names Quilt" began it's quest in the early 1990's. The most interesting facet of this approach must be the fact that there are no limits, in respect of time and content placed on peoples willingness to participate.

World-wide hundreds of thousands of people have contributed some way towards these projects, with the American Quilt now including over 20,000 handmade panels and weighing a staggering 23.57 tonnes.

So far the Quilt projects have provided an important focus of expression for those who's lives have in some way been affected by the HIV virus. In general the panels have been made by the family, friends and lovers of those who have died from an AIDS related illness, however the Cork "Quilt of Hope" differs in this respect. It aims to look at what is positive and what can be done. UNAIDS The world AIDS organisation has launched "The Force for Change campaign" which focuses on HIV and AIDS and the potential within young people to change the course that the virus may take.

In support of this important campaign, "Alliance" a Cork based Agency for AIDS and Sexual Health are currently co-ordinating the "Quilt of Hope" project. The project offers the opportunity for people to express their hopes and concerns about the spread of the HIV virus among the world's youth population! It is estimated that 7000 young people under the age of 24, become infected every day.

Corks 1998 commemoration of World AIDS Day included the first exhibition of the "Quilt of Hope". Accredited for it's innovative and inviting atmosphere, the exhibition of 26 submissions with a specially made ambient video, was well attended by the public. Assessing this interest it is apparent that this project should continue not only from an educational perspective but also from an aesthetic one.

The nature of the project is the use of creativity to raise the awareness of the issues raised by HIV and AIDS as they affect young people. In essence it also has the potential to reinforce positive attitudes towards sexual health and promote safer sexual practices among people in general. It is envisaged that this project will be long term, with exhibitions arranged on request, in particular on World AIDS Day (December 1st) and Irish AIDS Day (May). Any youth or community group with access to an appreciate Venue is invited to consider the showing of the Quilt.

The panels measure 18" x 34" and are available for a small donation from the
Alliance Centre
16 peters Street,
Cork.

However any type of decorated fabric in these dimensions will be accepted for the exhibition. There are no rules of entry. The project is open to groups and individuals and include any age group.
Phone:
021-4275837 for further details.

The mediums you decide to do will mark the individuality of the piece. However here are some suggestions:

• Use fabric paints on softer material and then attach to panel.
• Use found objects.
• Use drawings or paintings - but laminate them then attach them to the panel.
  N.B. An A4 laminator is available in the Alliance Centre.
• Any good at traditional patchwork? It would be great to see some of the work in this medium.
• Weave fabric or wool into the weave of the hessian panel.
  
  In fact use any approach you think might work!