Shawl (Llklla) 1950 - 1960

This Llklla, or shawl, in the collection of the Minneapolis Institute of Art, was made by an anonymous maker, and the date of its creation is unknown. This textile's dark field, punctuated by vertical bands of pattern, is woven with a striking intensity. Its visual power derives from the repetitive, precise labor that went into it. Notice the way the colors create strong contrasts, drawing the eye along the length of the shawl. This effect is achieved through careful selection and arrangement of the dyed wool, as well as the weaver's skillful manipulation of the loom. This wasn’t just a matter of technical virtuosity; it was a cultural statement. The act of weaving itself, the transformation of raw materials into complex patterns, imbued the shawl with social significance. It connects to broader questions of value, heritage, and the role of making in society. Appreciating the Llklla means recognizing the deep intertwining of materials, processes, and cultural expression. It challenges any idea that textiles are somehow separate from ‘fine art.’