Jacket c. 1920

This jacket, created by an anonymous artist, lives at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. It's interesting to think about how fabric and thread become a canvas for expression. Look at the way the geometric patterns create a visual rhythm. The choice of vibrant colors against the black fabric reminds me of some of the textiles of the Hmong people. Notice the details in the embroidery, the texture of the thread, the way it catches the light. You can imagine the hours of labor, the meticulous work that went into creating this garment. For me the repetitive stitching has a meditative quality. It's a bit like Agnes Martin's paintings in that way, with their subtle variations and irregularities. Each stitch is a small act of creation, a testament to the artist's skill and dedication. Art, in all its forms, is about connection, about sharing stories and experiences across time and cultures. It’s a conversation.