Woven Together Fabrics of Belonging

This exhibition examines the profound relationship between textiles and the spaces we inhabit—both public and personal. Featuring the works of Mina Keykhaei, Azadeh Monzavi, and Muna Nzeribe, the selection engages with textiles' political dimensions through the lens of feminism and social justice.

Mina Keykhaei's textile works highlight the transformative potential of upcycled textiles. By celebrating the narratives embedded in discarded materials, Keykhaei intertwines cultural heritage with contemporary artistic expression, challenging perceptions of waste and value. Each piece is a testament to intimate connections with the past, inviting contemplation of the materials' histories.

Muna Nzeribe invites us into her familial narrative. She utilizes her parents' wedding as a focal point embedded in wax print fabric reminiscent of textiles associated with popular Catholic organizations. This choice symbolizes the imprint of colonization and globalization on Indigenous cultures. Central to Nzeribe’s installation is a live stream via a VHS camera, inviting introspection by positioning viewers within the narrative.

Azadeh Monzavi’s works are a visual (matri)archive of historical events through her textiles. Her quilt, A Feminist Invitation (2022), opens and connects the entire exhibition. Monzavi’s interdisciplinary approach employs crafting techniques as a medium for dialogue, addressing systemic oppression and advocating for social justice. The textiles in her work become vessels for memory and resilience, highlighting the intricate connections between personal narratives and broader societal issues.

Together, these artists weave a rich tapestry that highlights the significance of textiles in both public discourse and intimate connections, fostering a deeper understanding of the politics surrounding textiles and their role in shaping identities and communities.