Description
The Banjara, an ethnic group composed of semi-nomadic tribes found throughout the Indian subcontinent , are renowned for their highly colorful textiles. Embellished with mirrors, shells, and intricate embroidery, Banjara work displays a surprisingly modern aesthetic. Created to showcase embroidery skill, protect the owner from harm, and channel auspicious powers, the Banjara technique is unique in India and is a celebration of the strength of the women who practice it.This is the first book devoted to the traditional clothing and embroidery of the Banjara, illuminating their long history and investigating their links with the European Roma.
Contributors
Charllotte Kwon
Author
Charllotte Kwon is director of the Maiwa Textile Symposium, owner of Maiwa Handprints Ltd, and director of the Maiwa Foundation. In 2002 she curated an exhibition of tribal embroideries from the Kutch Desert.
Tim McLaughlin
Author
Tim McLaughlin is a professional photographer and writer. In collaboration with Charllotte Kwon he has edited and codirected four documentary films.
Rosemary Crill
Foreword By
Rosemary Crill is a Senior Curator in the Asian Department at the Victoria and Albert Museum, London.