Our Threads of Allegiance: World War II in Santa Cruz & Abroad
WWII Relief Efforts by Santa Cruz
Exhibited from May 28 2011 – July 17 2011
The Museum of Art and History, Santa Cruz celebrates the contributions of Santa Cruz citizens to the WWII relief effort through this exhibition in the Lezin Gallery showcasing historical objects. Our Threads of Allegiance: World War II in Santa Cruz & Abroad, on view from May 28 through July 17, weaves together textiles and personal stories to examine the relationship between local Santa Cruz citizens and those abroad during WWII. Rationing and the creation of care packages became unifying forces for people stateside linking them to loved ones overseas.
Local stories of the four Franks brothers who served as lieutenants, and Dora Cecilia Anderson, a member of the Women’s Army Corps will connect the war to Santa Cruz on a personal level. Our Threads of Allegiance has many objects detailing how people at home offered material backing for people abroad. A quilt, which Santa Cruz military mothers crafted and signed for their sons overseas, epitomizes this communal support and strength.
Several interactive components are also included in this exhibition, such as audio stations containing interviews and personal stories of veterans and locals who experienced WWII. The Facebook page (facebook.com/OurThreads) offers visitors a place to see behind-the scenes photos and videos, post feedback or personal stories, and read interesting WWII facts.
This exhibition honors those veterans who served in World War II but extends gratitude to all veterans who have served or are currently serving the United States of America by offering free admission every weekend to these individuals and their families. Students, local residents, and tourists will leave the exhibition with a better understanding of how World War II affected the people of Santa Cruz.
Our Threads of Allegiance is a collaborative effort by UC Santa Cruz students, the History of Art and Visual Culture faculty, and the Museum staff. This exhibition is the concluding project of a three-class series, generously funded by Patricia and Rowland Rebele, where students gained knowledge of museum cultures and practices.