Tunic c. 20th century
wodaabe
minneapolisinstituteofart
textile, cotton
fashion mockup
textile
clothing promotion photography
collage layering style
fashion and textile design
fashion based
clothing theme
clothing photo
cotton
textile design
imprinted textile
clothing design
This tunic, created by the Wodaabe people, is a striking example of traditional West African textile art. The dark blue fabric is adorned with vibrant, colorful embroidery, featuring geometric patterns that are characteristic of Wodaabe craftsmanship. This tunic, dating back to the 20th century, showcases the intricate handwork and artistic sensibility of the Wodaabe people, who are known for their unique cultural traditions and striking attire.
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The Wodaabe are one of the few remaining nomadic peoples in Africa. Using traditional patterns and adhering to a common cultural aesthetic, they create colorful, richly embroidered garments that are worn at feasts and dances that take place during the rainy season. Both men and women may design and embroider their costumes, but it is primarily women who practice this art form. Variations of chain stitch and feather stitch are used to create intricate, repetitive patterns that are designed around a symmetrical axis. The patterns are handed down from one generation to the next and have names that refer to aspects of their nomadic life, such as calf-rope, winding road, star in the evening sky, or encampment.
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