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IU exhibits of African textiles and toys highlight tradition and technique
Jan. 11, 2000
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. -- Throughout January and February, the Indiana University Art Museum will feature several exhibits and events which highlight the tradition and technique of African textiles and toys.
"Technique & Inspiration: African Fabrics" will be on display from Jan. 21 through March 12. A stunning display of color and pattern is featured in this exhibit of textiles from all over Africa. Primarily handmade, the fabrics illustrate a wide range of media and techniques, including dyes ranging from indigo to mud, embroidery, applique and beadwork. The exhibit was organized by the University of Iowa Museum of Art and is supplemented with textiles from the IU Art Museum and private collections. The exhibit and related programs were made possible in part by Rita and John Grunwald; the IU Office of International Programs; and contributors to the IU Art Museum's Arc Fund.
In conjunction with the exhibit, three events are planned. A lecture titled "African Textiles: Tradition and Modernity" will be presented by Victoria Rovine, curator of the exhibit and curator of the arts of Africa, Oceania and the Americas at the University of Iowa Art Museum, on Jan. 21 at 5 p.m. in Fine Arts, Room 102.
An interactive gallery session for families and children titled "Pottery and African Textiles" will be held Jan. 22 from 1:30-3 p.m. in the second-floor Youth Gallery.
A noon gallery talk titled "The Rhythm of African Fabrics" will be presented by James Mumford, IU associate professor of Afro-American Studies, on Jan. 26 at 12:15 p.m. in the Special Exhibitions Gallery.
Another exhibit, "For Play and Not for Play: African Games and Toys," will be on display through Feb. 27. This small exhibit showcases the creativity and ingenuity of toys and games made by both children and adults in sub-Saharan Africa. Many were made for local use, but some items that were designed for sale to visitors are also included.
These exhibits and events are free and open to the public, but seating for the events is limited. For more information, contact the IU Art Museum at 812-855-IUAM.
(Jen McCormick, 812-855-5393, jenmccor@indiana.edu)