Tapestry of Tradition

Here’s a logo I designed for the Midwives’ Alliance of North America almost thirty years ago. The image was for a large national conference, and was printed on t-shirts, brochures, flyers, and tote bags. The theme was family and the interconnection of people. This was an easy assignment for me, especially since my own children were all born at home with the help of midwives. I was already somewhat known for my multicultural artwork, so it was right up my alley. And the midwives, of course, were a pleasure to work with. Such rational, grounded ladies! I’ve never met a midwife I don’t like.

Home birth midwives enter into a family’s life to assist a birthing woman, rather than removing her to a hospital. No one is excluded from this time of profound transition. Hospital midwives serve as a crucial ally for a birthing woman and her family, often having more hands-on, common-sense knowledge than obstetricians. My image shows various members of a family and community walking in a common stream of footsteps. Men and women, children and elders are all part of the family tradition that midwives nurture and support. The stream issues from the past and the ancestors that have brought the family into the world. It flows into the future, taking the growing family and its descendants forward in time. It seemed like a perfect symbol for the evolving, organic nature of family living.

Why did I make the logo move from right to left? I have no idea. I never even noticed that until today. My client never said a word about it either!

Order Tapestry of Tradition as a POSTER this week, and get a free greeting card (of the same image)! $10 for the poster and card, shipping included. Order your poster here!