PRESIDENTIAL FLAG EMBROIDERER TO HOST ONE-DAY EXHIBITION OF STUDENT WORK AT PHILLY’S MASONIC TEMPLE

The Masonic Temple will host a free, one-day exhibition on Saturday, Dec. 16, from 2 – 6 p.m., featuring Masonic-
themed works from students in Duwenavue (Santé) Johnson’s hand embroidery class. Visitors will be able to meet with artists, chat about Masonic research and learn how to stitch.

Johnson is an accomplished and well-known hand embroiderer and contemporary artist. She is part of a federal team that embroiders both the presidential and vice-presidential flags and was looking to utilize her embroidery skills in a community-based setting. The Masonic Temple was the perfect fit as Johnson comes from a family of Masons.

“My main goal was to have a space for people to find value within the Masonic embroidery collection, while learning and bringing ideas from the past into the present and future,” Johnson said. “It has been really great to see the inspiration behind all of the works.”
About 15 artists are featured in the exhibition, titled the “Mason Stitch Art Collective.” They include Masonic Library and Museum staff and student graduates of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) and Moore College of Art & Design.
“Having Masonic members in the group allowed us to ask questions and stay research focused,” Johnson said. “We have been researching images we have found in the building and meanings through symbolism.”
The process-based exhibition is the culmination of a year-long project at the Masonic Temple. Johnson first worked with Mike McKee, Masonic Library and Museum executive director, to offer free, weekly embroidery sessions to the Masonic community. She then opened the sessions up to the general public.
Students learned about the Masonic embroidery collection, stitching basics and how to complete a sample piece. Johnson has studied art and embroidery in various cities across the globe, including Philadelphia.
“Embroidery connects us to the past, builds community and strengthens relationships,” Johnson said. “Hand embroidery takes dedication and skill. You can tell the Masonic collection is dedicated to the past, and many stories have passed through these doors.”
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A National Historic Landmark in the heart of Philadelphia, the Masonic Temple was constructed in 1873. It is the headquarters for the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania (Masonic fraternity) and the Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania. Special events are hosted within the building through the branded events department known as ONE North Broad.