Working with local artisans across Africa and the Middle East in a variety of mediums, French multidisciplinary artist and designer Louis Barthélemy @louisbarthelemy creates contemporary artworks and artefacts based on centuries-old techniques, driven by his commitment to conserving and supporting vernacular handicrafts threatened by globalization. Inspired by the mystical universe of Senegalese wrestling which Barthélemy immersed himself during a trip to #Dakar, his latest series of appliquéd tapestries, “Wrestlers”, evocatively encapsulates the anthropological-informed approach of his practice as well as reflects the diverse influences behind his work. Made with “bazin”, a type of cotton brocade popular in West Africa, the quilt-like tapestries were handcrafted in Cairo in collaboration with Egyptian artisans who practice “khayamiya”, a type of decorative appliqué technique historically used to decorate tents across the Middle East. On view at Théodore Monod Museum of African Art in Dakar until January 20, 2022.
The center block for my “Warm Regard” quilt. #quilting, #quiltsofinstagram, #patchworkquilt #patchwork #kimdiehlquilts #warmregardsquilt #applique #fabricyoyos
