HMong Batik Workshop

Experience the beauty and tradition of Moob (HMong) batik facilitated by artist Ka Oskar Ly as an effort to reclaim this ancestral craft.

What is Moob (HMong) Batik?

The art of HMong Batik is the meticulous application of wax onto textiles to create intricate indigo motif designs. This process, known as a "resist" print technique, entails carefully applying wax onto specified areas of the fabric before submerging it in indigo dye. After this, the fabric undergoes a boiling treatment to enable the wax to dissolve, ultimately unveiling the beautifully crafted motifs.

Batik textiles are used by HMong women to create clothing like shirts, pleated skirts, baby carriers, and more.

What will the workshop include?

Learn about the natural materials used in this art that have been passed down from generations of skilled artisans. Through the workshop, each person will create their own unique piece of batik design.

Participants are encouraged to exchange cultural knowledge and embrace their talent. The workshop includes materials and equipment. Batik kits will also be available to take home and continue your own practice.

Let your creativity and passion flow as you immerse yourself and deepen your connection to this timeless craft. Leave with a unique piece for yourself or as a gift for loved ones.

Scholarships are available on a first come first serve basis. https://forms.gle/yj4S1wseJCNfeo1h9

Special thanks RedGreen Rivers artisans Mang Thao, Ying Khang, and Song Thao from Southeast Asia.

About the artist: Ka Oskar Ly (they/she/nws/nwg) is a queer HMong interdisciplinary artist and cultural producer. Their work combines fiber arts, soft sculpture, installations, and community engagement inspired by ancestral lineage. Ka has had the privilege of learning HMong batik from RedGreen Rivers artisans Mang Thao, Ying Khang, and Song Thao in Southeast Asia. Ka has adapted these teachings to reconnect with the art form through facilitating knowledge sharing. Learn more about Ka at kaonwards.com @kaonwards.

Ka Oskar Ly is a fiscal year 2024 recipient of a Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund. This work is also funded in part by MHC with money from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund that was created with the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.

Host or Publisher Hmong Museum of Minnesota