Purse c. 20th century

This Hmong purse, dimensions around 12 by 9 1/2 inches, lives at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. I like how the geometric patterns and vibrant color palette celebrate the process of artmaking. It’s all about the journey, right? The texture and color of this purse are like a visual feast. The embroidery is built up with such care, it's almost sculptural. I’m drawn to the way the maker uses bright colors like red, yellow, and green. Look at how they interact to create movement and depth. Take a look at the way the stitches form those diamond shapes. You can see how each stitch adds a layer, a little world to the whole. It reminds me of the quilts made by Gee's Bend quilters, where each piece of fabric tells a story. This purse isn't just about carrying stuff; it's about carrying history, culture, and a whole lot of love. It’s a testament to the fact that art is, in the end, a conversation.