Hat c. 20th century

This hat was made by Gejia, Miao, and is now held at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. The bright colors and detailed patterns, they just grab you, don't they? Think about the making; someone, somewhere, carefully stitching each thread, each bead. It’s like a conversation with materials, a slow dance between maker and object. The fringe, oh, that fiery red fringe! It’s so tactile, you just want to reach out and touch it. Then you look at the swirling silver patterns, so precise against that deep indigo blue. The details create this wonderful tension between control and exuberance. It reminds me of Hilma af Klint, who also used pattern and color to explore hidden worlds. This hat is more than just something to wear; it's a piece of art, a story woven in thread, and an invitation to imagine a different way of seeing. It's the kind of thing that keeps you looking, keeps you wondering.