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Emotional Baggage Cart: Unburden, Weave, Connect, Heal


Join me this weekend at the Miami Children’s Museum for in a dynamic, hands-on public art experience centered around my Emotional Baggage Cart series. Through an open dialogue, I will share the inspiration behind the project and explore the emotional weight we all carry.
Community members of all ages, are invited to weave directly onto a kid size shopping carts using a variety of provided materials—or bring personal objects to incorporate, making the piece uniquely meaningful. This collaborative process encourages reflection, healing, and connection, allowing participants to contribute to a collective artwork that symbolizes the shared journey of managing emotional burdens.
Together, we will transform individual stories into a powerful public sculpture, fostering community, empathy, and artistic expression.

Where: The Children’s Museum of Miami

Address: 980 MacArthur Cswy, Miami, FL 33132

When: 10:00am-6:00pm

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Beaded Yellow Gal


Beaded Yellow Gal
Theda Sandiford
80x16x5”
Upcycled textiles knotted on braided rope, knotted with cotton string eyelash yarn, fringe and a string of antique bells.
2023

Beaded Yellow Gal transforms a childhood label into a vibrant narrative of self-definition. This work is made from upcycled linens, knotted into braided rope, intertwined with cotton string, eyelash yarn, cascading fringe, and adorned with a string of antique bells. Each element serves as both a reflection of personal history and a declaration of reclamation.

As a child, being called “yellow gal” was an imposed identity. This work channels those experiences into a masquerade costume of vivid color, movement, and sound. The antique bells echo the complex duality of celebration and weight, signaling liberation while reminding us of the chains of societal labels. The knots and textures speak to the intricate weave of identity, shaped by memory, context, and culture.

In transforming this identity into a carnival costume, I claim agency over a narrative once imposed on me. This piece becomes a symbol of transformation—a vibrant expression of joy and defiance that can be worn but, crucially, also taken off. It reminds us that the labels others place on us do not define who we are but can become threads in the larger tapestry of our self-created story.

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Thank You: To My Unstoppable Network of Creative ChampionsThank You Enablers

Art is never a solo journey. It’s a collaboration—a tapestry of moments, materials, and connections woven together by the generosity and resourcefulness of so many. Today, I want to pause and extend my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you who has played a part in keeping my art alive and thriving.

To the tireless hands and watchful eyes that have rescued abandoned shopping carts from dumpsters, gathered marine debris from beaches, and collected bottle caps, pull tabs, bread tabs, and corks—I see you. Your efforts do more than clean the planet; they infuse my art with purpose, grounded in your very essence.

To those who’ve rummaged through estate sales, dug deep into dumpsters, and thoughtfully passed along linens and other treasures—you don’t just fill my art supply bins; you ignite my imagination. Every item you’ve rescued carries a story, a potential waiting to be transformed into something extraordinary.

You are more than contributors; you are co-creators. Each time I knot, weave, or wrap these materials into new forms, I feel your dedication and your belief in the beauty of reinvention. Your efforts remind me that art isn’t just about the final piece—it’s about the community that makes it all possible.

Together, we are giving new life to what was once discarded. We are proving that beauty can emerge from the overlooked and forgotten. Thank you for being the stewards of this vision, for believing in the power of transformation, and for supporting me in ways that are both tangible and deeply meaningful.

Here’s to cleaning the planet, filling my bins, and keeping the creative spark alive. I couldn’t do this without you.

With love and immense gratitude, Theda

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Looking Ahead: My 2025 Art and Travel Adventures

2025 promises to be a year of growth and discovery, filled with opportunities to create, connect, and share meaningful experiences. Every step of this journey aligns with my mission to inspire dialogue about race, social justice, and the transformative power of art.

In January, I’ll serve as the Artist in Residence at the Miami Children’s Museum (January 16–19). I’m especially excited to lead a workshop on Emotional Baggage Carts, where I’ll guide children in using art as a tool for self-expression and emotional exploration. Integrating shadow work with creativity is central to my mission of reshaping conversations about race and social justice. Introducing these ideas to children through art feels like nurturing seeds of understanding and empathy for the future.

Sky Garden Gallery Retreat: Building a Creative Haven

Back at home, the transformation of the garage into my new art studio at Sky Garden Gallery Retreat is well underway and on track for completion by the end of January. This space will soon be the heart of my creative practice and the retreat’s residency program.

The first artist residents will arrive in January to join me in setting up the studio and foraging for art supplies around the property. In February, more residents will visit to help finalize the studio setup and begin building raised beds for growing dye plants. Watching this dream come to life—both as a functional studio and as a community space—feels deeply fulfilling. I’m eager to see how this new chapter unfolds and to share the space with artists who bring their own unique perspectives and practices.

March & April: Learning, Teaching, and Rome

March promises a month of creative exploration. I’ll lead the Textile Alchemy Workshop with the Surface Design Association, where participants will discover how to transform found and upcycled materials into meaningful textile art. By sourcing from diverse environments like beaches, urban areas, and even closets, this workshop highlights sustainability, resourcefulness, and innovation. Embracing a zero-waste philosophy, we’ll turn “waste” into “wonder,” finding artistic potential in the most unexpected places.

I’m also excited to participate in Jenine Shereos’ Knotless Netting Workshop, where I’ll delve into the art of layering material and meaning. Inspired by the rich history and versatility of netting, this workshop will open new possibilities for integrating this evocative technique into my practice.

In April, I’ll travel to Rome with my partner McCarty for an Easter pilgrimage (April 21–May 1), a journey blending history, spirituality, and artistic inspiration. We’ll explore the city’s architectural wonders, from the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Pantheon to the timeless beauty of the Colosseum and Piazza Navona.

Amid these marvels, we plan to savor the city’s culinary delights, including many glasses of Brunello di Montalcino. From quiet moments in the Vatican Gardens to admiring the frescoes of the Sistine Chapel, this trip promises to nourish both my spirit and my artistry. I’m looking forward to seeing how Rome’s timeless beauty will impact my practice.

June: Milestones and Connections

On June 19, I’m thrilled to host the first public Studio Tour and Ecopark Walk at Sky Garden Gallery Retreat in St. Croix. This event marks a milestone in the development of our residency program and invites the community to experience the intersection of art, nature, and culture.

Guests will explore my studio and the surrounding property during an eco-focused walking tour, sipping refreshing, homemade bush tea while taking in the tranquil environment. It’s a chance to learn about how St. Croix’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage inspire my work and the art created by visiting residents.

The studio tour is part of Discover the Rich Art & History of St. Croix, an unforgettable weeklong experience highlighting the island’s vibrant art scene and storied history. From visits to historic landmarks to beachside lunches and starlit evenings of music and fun, this tour is a celebration of all that makes St. Croix unique.

Click here for more details.

Later in June, I’m honored to have my work featured in Fiberart International 2025 in Pittsburgh, with the public opening on Friday, June 20, from 4:30–8:00 PM. On Saturday, June 21, I hope to join the weekend program, including an artist-led gallery tour from 11 AM to 12 PM, and a juror’s talk to follow.

Following Pittsburgh, I’ll head to MAFA 2025 in Millersville, PA (June 26–29). I plan to be in the Mid-Atlantic region (June 22-25) to visit galleries and connect with friends. If you’re attending MAFA or nearby DE, NJ, PA, let’s meet up! I’d love to catch up, share ideas, and celebrate the vibrant fiber art community. This month promises to be a rich mix of art, connection, and creative exploration.

As I look ahead, I’m filled with gratitude and anticipation. From creating in my newly completed studio at Sky Garden Gallery Retreat and mentoring resident artists to exploring the art, history, and architecture of vibrant new places, each moment feels like a chance to grow, connect, and share. This journey is constantly evolving, and I’m excited to see where it leads.

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For Venus and Serena

This piece honors all the girls with beaded braids who grew up watching the Williams sisters, finding strength and pride in their grace, power, and unapologetic excellence—both on the court and in the court of public opinion. Venus and Serena embody Black excellence, breaking barriers and redefining what is possible. This artwork is a salute to their legacy and to the generations inspired by their resilience and brilliance.

Crafted from two vintage tennis rackets, African print fabric, paracord, loop yarn, bottle caps, ribbon hair beads, a watch face, acorns, and other ephemera, the work weaves together materials that symbolize both heritage and individuality. The beaded elements evoke the rhythmic sounds of braids on the move, echoing the energy and determination of every young girl daring to see herself in their story.

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Inspired by Chinese Wax Dye Resist: Exploring a Timeless CraftWax Dye Resist

This video is start to finish spectacular and inspiring.

Art is a living dialogue between cultures, time periods, and materials, often bridging the ancient and the modern. Chinese wax dye resist, also known as làrǎn (蜡染), is a traditional technique that has captivated artists for centuries. Its intricate patterns, deep symbolism, and labor-intensive process reflect the cultural heritage of regions in China where it is still practiced, such as Guizhou, Yunnan, and Guangxi provinces. Today, this ancient craft offers a wellspring of inspiration for contemporary creators.

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Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Growth, Creativity, and Connection

2024 has been a year of profound artistic exploration, meaningful connections, and transformative milestones. It began with Ponytails and Door Knocker Earrings, an installation at Time Equities in New York that enlivened the lobby from January to July. I’m deeply grateful to friends and colleagues who braved a freezing January evening to celebrate its opening with me.

Later in January, I participated in the Surface Design Association’s Parallel Play residency and conference, sharing my creative process through open studios and an artist talk. These exchanges deepened my connection with the SDA community.

Liquid Ice Detail

In February, I gave an inspiring talk with the Hudson Valley Mohawk Weavers, exploring weaving as a tool for Black self-expression and social justice. That same month, Metamorphosis: Recycled, Repurposed, Reimagined opened at Annmarie Sculpture Garden, featuring Beaded Braids – Double Dutch, a celebration of childhood, braiding, and the cultural significance of hair.

In May, my work Liquid Ice sold to the Guggenheim Museum at the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair, marking a milestone in my career. I also embarked on two artist residencies at Touchstone Center for Crafts, where I continued work on Free Your Mind, transcribing story ribbons and cataloging biases. The project expanded with exhibitions at Touchstone, Delaware Contemporary, and presentations at the American Folklore Society Annual Conference.

My Great Resignation Emotional Baggage Cart was a focal point this year. Featured as the postcard image for the Hunterdon Art Museum’s Uncontained: Reimagining Basketry and spotlighted in the 9th Annual SDJ Exhibition in Print, it examines themes of liberation and self-discovery. Repurposed materials, including vintage silk ties and a shopping cart substrate, challenge notions of value and redefine prosperity through inner fulfillment rather than material wealth.

Another standout was my Blackity Black Blanket series. Ladders was the cover image for the Beyond: Tapestry Expanded catalog and exhibition, while Chaise featured in the Newark Museum of Art’s Radical Reimagining. Both works explore implicit bias and the impact of microaggressions, symbolized by zip-tie blankets draped on ladders—a visceral portrayal of the weight of societal expectations and the struggle to rise above them.

In October, I led the Emotional Baggage Cart Parade during Art in Odd Places along NYC’s 14th Street. With the support of incredible volunteers, we transformed shopping carts into visual narratives of shared emotional burdens. Their contributions made this project truly special.

Free Your Mind, sharing a story ribbon

The year culminated with my presentation of Free Your Mind at the Textile Society of America Symposium, reflecting on the interplay of textiles, microaggressions, and healing. This was paired with immersive research at the American Folklore Society Annual Conference, where I explored themes of foodways, grief, the supernatural, and Indigenous knowledge.

This year, I’ve watched my work resonate with diverse audiences and evolve in unexpected ways. From exhibitions to residencies, artist talks, and public art initiatives, 2024 has been a celebration of creativity, community, and growth. I look forward to building on this momentum in the year ahead!

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WIP: Celestial Nexus

This artwork, crafted from three-ply cotton glitter rope, intricately knotted and wrapped with eyelash yarn, embroidery floss, and crystal beads, forms the foundational layer of a spiritual altar. Designed to harmonize with feathers, shells, and a bowl of water, it amplifies elemental energies to create a sacred space for reflection, connection, and renewal.

Its circular form embodies the cyclical nature of life and the continuous flow of energy, symbolizing the infinite interplay between air and water. The shimmering materials catch and reflect light, evoking sunlight filtering through shifting clouds or the unseen yet ever-present currents of wind moving through the atmosphere. This piece invites a meditative engagement, weaving together elements of nature and spirit into a unified, radiant whole.

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BookClub: Water Graves by Valerie Loichot

Water Graves by Valerie Loichot is a profound exploration of the ocean as both a literal and metaphorical grave, particularly in relation to the Middle Passage and the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade. Loichot examines how water serves as a site of memory, mourning, and transformation, holding the weight of untold histories lost beneath its surface.

One of the book’s most powerful themes is the duality of water as both life-giving and destructive. Loichot delves into how the ocean, while capable of erasing physical traces, becomes a vast memorial for those who perished in its depths. Her poetic reflections on the ocean’s capacity to obscure and reveal offer a nuanced understanding of how water embodies loss, survival, and cultural resilience.

Loichot captures the tension between water as both a destructive and life-giving force. This duality inspires my Lost and Found series, where I use marine waste—objects abandoned or displaced by hurricanes—as materials to create sacred vessels. Just as Loichot discusses the ocean as a space of burial, mourning, and sometimes recovery, my art reclaims these discarded objects from the water’s aftermath, transforming them into symbols of resilience and memory. With this series, each piece I create is a tribute to those lost in the Atlantic, while also reflecting on the environmental and cultural devastation left in the wake of these storms.

Loichot’s discussion of water as a boundary between life and death, presence and absence, resonates with my own artistic exploration of memory and spiritual protection. She writes about how water can obscure and reveal, how it holds the stories of the past even as it erases physical traces. This is something I aim to reflect in my work—the idea that what is lost in the water isn’t truly gone but rather transformed, just as I transform marine waste into something meaningful.

Loichot’s work is essential for anyone interested in how environmental and historical forces converge in the symbolic and real-world power of the sea. Through Water Graves, she reveals the emotional depth of the ocean’s role in shaping cultural identity, memory, and history.