Belt c. 20th century

This black and white woven belt was made by an anonymous artist, and it’s now housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. The piece is striking, not just for its simple palette but for its focus on process. I’m drawn to the way the artist uses weaving to construct figures. The weaving is incredibly fine, and the contrast between black and white threads gives the whole piece a visual texture, a kind of optical buzz. It’s almost like a minimalist painting! There's something about the handmade quality of this belt that is so appealing, it speaks to a kind of labour and love, much like the Gee's Bend Quilts. Ultimately, this piece reminds us that art isn't just about the end result but about the act of creation itself, an ongoing dialogue between the artist and the materials. It invites us to slow down, to appreciate the small details, and to find beauty in the imperfect.