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Welcome
to the web site for the exhibit “Traditional Textiles of Indochina”
at Truman State University. Featuring
a wide array of textiles from Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos,
this exhibit reveals the important roles textiles play in the various
Indochinese cultures even today. Although often considered the domain
of women, the art of making textiles—whether for use as clothing,
decoration, or linens—reflects a great deal about the cultures as
a whole. Many of the designs and techniques used for these textiles
have come from centuries-old traditions that the Indochinese peoples
have worked to preserve despite political and economic difficulties.
In an era when technology and the homogenization of cultures threatens
to erode unique cultural identities, the continued production and
use of these textiles in Southeast Asia is particularly hopeful. Dr.
Sara E. Orel, Associate Professor of Art History at Truman State University,
collected the majority of textiles shown in this exhibit. Dr. Orel
traveled throughout Southeast Asia in January and February 2002, researching
the art and traditions of Indochinese cultures and selecting beautiful
examples of hand-made textiles for use in the show. Approximately
70 individual pieces are included in this exhibit, ranging from traditional
tribal costume to cushion covers and wall hangings. Shown in the University
Gallery in Ophelia Parrish Hall, this exhibit provides a unique and
valuable glimpse of cultures and peoples thousands of miles away.
29
September 2003 - 24 October 2003 The
pages linked to this site (shown at the top of this page) provide
some background information about topics related to this exhibit.
A bibliography is also included to aid in further research. |
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For Further Reading Myanmar Frasier-Lu, Sylvia. Burmese Crafts: Past and Present New York: Oxford UP, 1994. Thailand Gittinger,
Mattibelle. Textiles and the Tai Experience in Southeast Asia.
Washington, D.C.: Textile Museum, 1992. Batik Dyrenforth,
Noel. The Technique of Batik. London, Batsford, 1988. Hmong and Karen Tribes Faderman,
Lillian. I Begin My Life All Over: The H’mong and the American
Immigrant Experience. Boston: Beacon Press, 1998. Credits: Photographs are by Sara E. Orel and maps are by Fine Arts Publications at Truman State University. Text is by Maire Corcoran. |