Zurashi / Slipped by Rowland and Chinami Ricketts

Like any other creative process, the production of cloth, and ikat in particular, creates a framework of limitations for the artist to work with. The yarns must be organized and handled to prepare them for weaving. Before dyeing, certain sections of the yarns are bound to resist the dye, creating patterns by preventing color absorption in those areas. When interwoven, the dyed and resisted sections become whole in the patterns that are revealed. These patterns reflect a deep understanding of ikat’s limitations as well as their creator’s ability to trick them into doing what they want.