Diasporic Decorative Dyeing Techniques

This workshop explores indigenous craft techniques used in Black and Asian cultures to create decoration on naturally dyed textiles, specially indigo dyed textiles. It is not necessarily a workshop focused on the chemistry or upkeep of a natural dye vat, nor will it focus on the chemistry of dyeing. The workshop will journey through the various decorations, patterns, and techniques seen across key cultures in Asia and West Africa in creating culturally important textiles dyed in indigo. A small zine will be distributed to illustrate techniques applied during the dyeing event and for further research/trial outside of the workshop.

This workshop captures three themes:

1. Design as a driver for social change, awareness, curiosity, and solidarity through creation of collaborative beauty.
2. Healing communities through analogous indigenous craft techniques as a way to foster mutual respect between cultures.
3. An exploration of craft as a disruption to the techno-capitalistic cycle of production: decolonizing the body through art practices connected to the natural world.

Host or Publisher Field Meridians