The Museum is excited to open a new exhibition this weekend, All the Colors of the Rainbow: Uzbekistan Ikats from the Collection of Peggy Slappey. “All the colors of the rainbow” is how one early 19th-century diplomat described the ikat robes found in the bazaars and desert oases of Central Asia. These Uzbekistan ikat robes and accessories open a window into a culture and tradition that is not often seen in the West.
The Museum has hosted and originated many exhibitions concerning various aspects of Asian art over the years, but never one about Central Asia and certainly not one about Uzbekistan. We are proud to expand our horizons and to present these wonderful treasures for the first time.
Here are 5 reasons you are sure to love All the Colors of the Rainbow:
- The Colors
Imagine a society where silk covered almost everything: its population wearing colorful, mystically designed dresses, hats, and robes; its homes hung with intricately embroidered tapestries; and even its horses and camels covered with polychrome stitched trappings. You have imagined the Central Asian cities of the 19th and early 20th centuries. These ikats were among the most coveted in Central Asian society, and you are now taking a glimpse of this bright and beautiful history! - The Craftsmanship
Only when we explore the complex methods that produced ikat fabric can we appreciate the craftsmanship and artistry of this very rich textile tradition. No ikat fabric was the work of an individual, as no single person could master all the skills required. From the raising of the silkworms to the final polishing of the material requires great effort and time. Take a look at the steps to creating an ikat, then see the incredible final product in the exhibition! - The Accessories
Not only does the exhibition include ikat robes, but also hats, boots, jewelry, and more. Can you imagine these works of art being worn today? - The History
The pieces in the exhibition date back to the early 1800s, featuring pieces from the golden era of ikats from the great cities of the ancient Silk Road. It has been an important crossroad for trade for centuries, and there is so much history to learn about this important trade route in the exhibition. - The Party!
See All the Colors of the Rainbow before anyone else at our opening party, happening Friday, March 18 from 6-9PM. Free to BMA members and $25 for non-members, the party includes admission to the exhibition, food, tea cocktails from Revelator Coffee, live music by Tzignal Duo and A DJ Called Phlip, and more. Click here to join the Facebook event and invite your friends.
The exhibition opens to the public on Saturday, March 19. Don’t miss this stunning collection, open through July 10!