Aids Quilt Exhibit and Reception

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Nov. 21, 2011) – The world’s largest ongoing community arts project, The AIDS Memorial Quilt, will make its home in the Student Center's Rasdall Gallery weekdays from11 a.m. to 5 p.m. now though Dec. 8. This event is free and is sponsored by the Student Activities Board.

The AIDS Memorial Quilt was founded in 1987 and serves as a memorial of those whose lives were claimed here in the United States and around the word from the AIDS epidemic.

Each individual section of the AIDS Memorial Quilt has been sewn together by family, friends and lovers commemorating the life of someone who has died of AIDS. More than 44,000 individual 3-by-6 foot memorial panels make up the quilt today.

The goal of the quilt is to serve as a tool to bring awareness to how AIDS affects millions globally and prevent new HIV infections. The quilt continues to grow and travel to different communities around the United States reaching people with its message of remembrance and awareness.

“I was really excited to bring this exhibit because quilting in itself is an art form that speaks to the heritage of Kentucky and is a more simple, yet complex work of art,” said Shannon Ruhl, director of the Student Activities Board Cultural Arts Committee. “Also, I really feel that this exhibit is something students can learn from and really have something to take away from the art.”

Students who tour the exhibit in the gallery will be given embroidered red ribbons to wear to further raise awareness of AIDS.

A reception will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1, in the Rasdall Gallery. Drinks and catering will be provided. This is in conjunction with World Aids Day hosted by UK's University Health Service.

MEDIA CONTACT:  Katy Bennett, (859) 257-1909