African American Fabrics: Journey of Our Family

Mudcloth Family, a Journey Fabric by Kweli Kitwana (c) 2010

I've been working on a series of African American fabrics inspired by African traditional patterns, the Diaspora and African American history. Hand woven and hand-dyed mudcloth uses a centuries old process using numerous applications of various plant juices/teas and mud to dye hand woven cotton cloth.   In my interpretation of this textile, I am  using slave ships in the patterns.

Traditionally, each piece of mudcloth tells a story. No two pieces are alike and each pattern and color combination has a meaning. The symbols, arrangements, color as well as shape of the mudcloth reveal secrets. The mudcloth is also used to define a person’s social status, character or occupation. Bogolanfini is an expression of Malian national identity and a symbol of belonging to African culture.

WHAT ARE YOUR WEARING?

When we wear these beautiful textiles, do we think about our connection to Africa and the Mali people? Do we take time to reflect on the connections we have to our family members who create these textiles? Why are we, as Africans and American so attracted to these patterns? What do these textiles represent? Who are the Mali  people..our cousins and ancestors? Why did and do they create? What have you to offer as a "creative spirit" as you wear and adorn yourself with these textiles?...I'm just sayin' think about it when you wear these sacred textiles.

CLICK to See Detail of Mudcloth Family, by Kweli Kitwana, 2010

NOTE: This design is NOT YET AVAILABLE for sale as a fabric. If you are interested in this design please contact kkitwana@africanamericanfabrics.com.