Tightly Bound: The Story of Dutch Wax Textiles

‘Dutch Wax’ textiles are a recognizable and distinct element of African culture and identity, but their origins are found in 19th century Dutch Colonialism and the Industrial Revolution. For decades Yinka  Shonibare has exploited their “fakeness” in his paintings, photographs, and installations, using them as entry points to conversations about global connection and identity. ICA- Art Conservation Textile conservator Jane Hammond, will review the history of these wax-resist textiles and some of the conservation challenges faced in their preservation in a presentation for the general public.