Tush kyiz (hanging) c. 1962

This Tush kyiz hanging was made anonymously with fiber, and its design is just so compelling. It’s giving me life! The variety of motifs and symbols is really cool, like the circle-and-paisley combo along the top. The material feels alive, with the bold color of the fabric playing with the rich, matte texture of the stitching. It reminds me of some of Matisse’s cut-outs, where the materials and the process are all part of the emotional impact. Check out the little flowers dotted along the borders - they’re so simple, but add such a delicate touch. Thinking about folk art and the way it uses symbols reminds me of Hilma af Klint, who was also using symbols and vibrant colour to express mystical ideas, even though their contexts and methods were totally different. Art is just one big conversation, isn't it? So many voices and perspectives.