Panel c. 20th century

Editor: We're looking at a textile panel from the Kachin people, probably created sometime in the 20th century. It's woven silk, rich in reds and blacks and gold threads, and has a striking geometric pattern. There's something grounding and substantial about this piece to me. What's your first impression? Curator: My dear, it breathes tales, doesn't it? Each thread, a whisper from generations past. Think of the hands that wove this, the stories told as the shuttle danced back and forth. To me, it's more than a decorative object; it's a tangible piece of cultural memory. Do you see how the geometric forms, at first appearing static, seem almost to hum with movement? Editor: Yes, I noticed that too! It's like a quiet vibration beneath the surface. What does the geometry signify? Curator: Ah, that's the enchanting question, isn’t it? Perhaps these repeating patterns represent the cycles of life, the interconnectedness of all things. Or, equally possible, they served a protective function, warding off negative energy. Do the colours speak to you? Red being especially poignant to the communities. Editor: The colours are very striking – how red meets the muted black. I hadn't considered its possible protective properties though! I mostly focus on it being visually stunning. Curator: Exactly! The eye is drawn to the pleasing pattern, and that in itself could serve as a starting point to explore other aspects to enrich our perception and appreciation. Textiles often get relegated as 'craft', and seeing this challenges these sorts of categorizations that create artistic hierachies. Don’t you agree? Editor: Absolutely, thank you! I see it as more than just pretty now; I understand it contains so many stories and perspectives. Curator: Precisely! And hopefully that perspective will allow others to understand. It has certainly transformed my seeing, how about you?