Event Details
In the rich textile traditions of the SWANA region (Southwest Asia and North Africa), garments and their adornments, such as thread, coins, beads, amulets, and jewelry, tell tales of community, identity, and celebration in ways that words often cannot. For millennia, these objects and their designs have transmitted stories across continents, as cultural symbols and meanings that reflect social status, religion, fashion, and belonging. The opportunity for close looking and appreciation of the artistry, beauty, and cultural heritage embedded in this artistry lies at the heart of Embroidered Traditions from Morocco to Afghanistan, the first exhibition in the history of the Art Institute of Chicago to focus on the rich textiles and dress practices from this intertwined but understudied part of the world.
Janet Marion Purdy is the Barbara Franke Associate Curator in Textiles at the Art Institute of Chicago.
Our Monday Enrichment programs, on music, art, literature, science and social sciences, are always free to the public, with freewill donations appreciated.
For more information visit our website at https://www.nineteenthcentury.org. The Nineteenth Century Charitable Association is a 501(c)3 charitable organization, and an Illinois nonprofit organization. Our mission is strengthening our community through learning, giving, and sharing our landmark building, The Nineteenth Century Club. The Association was established in 1891 by a group of visionary women who believed education, charitable activities and civic involvement were vital elements in a thriving community. The spirit of the founders continues through grants, scholarships and public programming. We promote life-long learning through dynamic, multi-cultural programs featuring music, art, literature, science and the social sciences.