African textile artists often use the strong, rich blue given by indigo dye to set off patterns that range from simple to elaborate. In resist dyeing, parts of the fabric are protected by tying or stitching or by applying paint or wax before the fabric is dyed. After dyeing, the coverings are removed to reveal the pattern, still in the fabricâs original color. Explore this and other patterning techniques in âThreads of Tradition,â on view in the Perelman Building through January 2017.
âWomanâs Wrapper with Tie-Dyeing,â mid- to late 20th century, made by the Yoruba culture, Nigeria
âWomanâs Wrapper with Starch-Resist Dyeing,â late 1960s, made by the Yoruba culture, Nigeria












