Marquetta Johnson’s Belief in Art and Activism

Marquetta Johnson committed her life to teaching and sharing the power of art with younger generations.

After being shot and paralyzed from the waist down, Johnson made a plea to God that she would dedicate the rest of her life to teaching kids how to be artists if she survived. The Atlanta-based artist traveled the country to fulfill this promise, including sharing the power of quilting with our community at Change The Pattern Quilt workshops across the South. 

Her work with Change The Pattern touched thousands of lives across the South. She helped use the power of quilting to reimagine the fight to end HIV in southern states, where Black and LatinX individuals are disproportionately impacted by HIV and AIDS.

“What I want to do is to encourage young people to take up needle, to take up thread and change the world with it," Marquetta Johnson (1955-2025). 

‍

Marquetta Johnson’s Legacy

Marquetta passed away on February 12, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of activism and education. The National AIDS Memorial will forever remember Johnson, who passed away this February, and her belief in the importance of community art projects like the AIDS Memorial Quilt.

“Marquetta was part of the very first Call My Name sewing workshops.  She shared her sewing and painting skills with everyone around her.  Her sweet smile provided comfort for those unsure about the process of creating a panel for the AIDS Quilt,” Roddy Williams, Senior Manager of Quilt Operations.

Read more about Maruqetta Johnson's legacy.