fibre-art, collage, textile
fashion design
fibre-art
collage
fashion mockup
asian-art
textile
collage layering style
fashion and textile design
fashion based
historical fashion
wearable design
clothing theme
china
clothing photo
clothing design
Dimensions: 40 1/8 x 48 1/4 in. (101.92 x 122.56 cm)
Copyright: Public Domain
This coat was created by Dong, and hangs at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. I'm thinking about the many patient hours of labor, the intimate relationship between the maker and this garment. Each stitch, bead, and tassel tells a story of dedication. Imagine Dong, fingers moving with practiced ease, eyes focused on the emerging pattern. The coat's dominant dark hue sets a tone of understated elegance, which is then punctuated by the rich detailing of the collar and cuffs. These decorative elements draw you in, inviting closer inspection of the geometric motifs and intricate beadwork. The texture of the fabric, I bet, speaks of the earth, of natural fibers carefully chosen and woven together. I imagine Dong, and others, in an ongoing conversation, exchanging ideas across generations. Creating something that embraces ambiguity and uncertainty. Artists offer each other new interpretations and meanings.
Comments
Like the Hmong, the Yao people originated in China and have migrated into the hill country of Laos, Thailand and northern Vietnam. Dress identification has always been strong among the Yao and the womenfolk are totally responsible for the creation of the ceremonial dress worn on special occasions by their families. Styles of dress will vary within the various subgroups and from village to village. However, all Yao women wear an indigo tunic, trousers, and elaborate head cloths. Nearly all special occasion wear incorporates sophisticated silk embroidery and appliqué work. Most of the stylized designs, including animals, plants, birds, and flowers are imbued with symbolic meaning. Accordingly, designs usually adhere to a fairly rigid framework of traditions, customs, stitch work, and rules that ensure the Yao identity is preserved and recognized. A woman's individuality can be expressed, however, in the minute specific details. This outfit, consisting of tunic, trousers, bib, apron, head cloth, and scarf is decorated in exquisite embroidery using traditional weave stitch, symbols, and colors.
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