Alokun Date Unknown

This Alokun textile was created by Yoruba artists, using the resist-dyeing technique known as adire. The cloth's surface is divided into a grid of squares, each a unique pattern. These patterns aren't just decorative; they're deeply entwined with Yoruba culture and often carry symbolic meanings. The resist-dyeing process involves covering certain areas of the fabric with a resist substance, such as cassava paste, before dyeing it with indigo. The dye is absorbed only in the uncovered areas, creating the intricate designs we see here. The process is labor intensive, requiring significant time and skill. Alokun cloths like these were historically created by women, who passed down the techniques through generations. This piece challenges our understanding of art history, by reminding us that cloth can be a vital medium of cultural expression.