Protection Blanket

protection blanket, 2026

mixed-media quilt - found and self-sourced archival objects, textiles, beaded tassel, red tufted yarn

This is my rendition of a traditional baby carrier blanket. This form in Iu Mien women's garb stands as its own distinct layer within a larger garment tradition. I made it to reconnect with younger versions of myself, using objects pulled from my own life and my family's. Dried bean pods from my Guv Maa's garden are worked into the piece alongside my graduation tassel, worn a decade ago - the day I became the first in my family to survive higher ed and obtain a bachelors degree. A malachite stone sits among them, a symbol of protection, transformation, and healing. The bundle of feathers are a few from my ever-growing collection, gifts from above reminding me I'm where I'm supposed to be. Across the top panel are five round femme faces each looking in a different direction. Traditionally, this blanket is worn on the back to carry a child. Here, the faces take on that same role, watching in every direction, guarding and protecting my back the way I know my ancestors do. The pouch in the middle holds a note to self, a prayer to ground my spirit and keep me tethered to who I am.