In this blog, I will focus on the study of African tribal art textiles and some of their inherent patterns. Their dazzling fabric patterns are the characteristics of African culture and I would like people to think of the African style at the first sight of these fabrics. Unfortunately, due to the different region, I can't purchase 100% the same of their materials for this project, therefore I hope I can observe and compare similar materials that can replace some of them. In addition, I also want to study some material background information. I still have no clear understanding of them yet, so I will analyze them in detail in this blog post.
Different African textiles produced in different parts of the African continent. Africa has several different designs, techniques, dyeing methods as well as decorative and practical uses. These textiles have their own artistic importance and historical significance, and they are the main expression by which Africans define themselves.
In the beginning, the major historical information about African pattern and design is known from architecture, decorated artefacts, masks and textiles. Many forms of mathematical geometric variations, chevrons, zigzag, diamonds and triangles can be seen in lots of African decoration structure. Later on, the pattern started used as a resource for a contemporary African textile design.
Here are some well-known tribal textile art example:
The weaving of textiles is essential in many African cultures. The concept of human reproduction and regeneration can be represented by the different spinning and weaving. As you can see, textiles are even a form of storytelling that often displaces the written word and conveys important information to individuals, families or wider social units. Colours of clothing also play an important role as they can reflect many different characteristics and attributes. For instance, wearing black and white kente cloth is common at Ewes and Ashanti funerals, they representing both the celebration of life and the mourning of death.
How are they produced:
Weaved, dyed, appliqued, embroidered, and printed processes are all can be used to make cloth. Both varieties of woven fabric, as well as the leather and bark, printed, dyed, and hand-painted. Cotton is the most common fabric used in weaving, like wool, silk, raffia, bark, and bast fibres are used to make linen fabric.
How do they usually wear: Wrapped around waists and hips and then, thrown over the shoulder or turn into tunics and robes.
In the past, their usage was controlled by chiefs and regional leaders, also Kente cloth was traditionally just worn by royalty. However, in modern times they mostly are often used for social and political commentary, as well as to commemorate special occasions such as marriages, funerals, burials, and naming ceremonies.
Lloyd, A.K. How to Wear Kente Cloth. Available from : https://www.kentecloth.net/wearing-kente-cloth/ [Accessed 22/05/21].
Your Complete Guide to African Print Fabric | Kitenge. (2020) [Online] Kitenge Store. Available from : https://kitengestore.com/everything-need-know-african-print-fabric/ [Accessed 22/05/21].
Traditional Adire Fabric Patterns. (2015) [Online] Urbanstax. Available from : https://www.urbanstax.com/traditional-adire-fabric-patterns/ [Accessed 22/05/21].
African textiles. [Online] Contemporary African Art. Available from : https://www.contemporary-african-art.com/african-textiles.html [Accessed 22/05/21].
Picton, J. African Textiles. [Online] LoveToKnow. Available from : https://fashion-history.lovetoknow.com/fabrics-fibers/african-textiles [Accessed 22/05/21].
No comments:
Post a Comment