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4KINSHIP

African Textiles Color and Creativity Across a Continent by John Gillow 2009

Regular price $50.00
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Regular price $50.00

About this piece

African Textiles Color and Creativity Across a Continent by John Gillow 2009

We’re honored to release the first drop from the 4KINSHIP Studio Library — a curated collection of vintage and gently used books gathered over decades of research, travel, design, and lived experience.

These titles have shaped our thinking. They’ve informed our dye practices, textile studies, Indigenous design ethics, land-based storytelling, and our broader creative journey. Some are rare. Some are well-loved. All have been part of the foundation of what became 4KINSHIP.

As we thoughtfully downsize our archives, we’re excited to pass these phenomenal reads forward — into new studios, homes, classrooms, and creative spaces.

May they inspire you the way they inspired us.
May they be used, referenced, dog-eared, and loved again.

Pages: 240

Dimensions: 8-1/2” x  10-1/2” Paperback

Condition: Like New(minimal signs of use) very small scuffs to cover. 

A sweeping, richly illustrated survey of Africa’s traditional handcrafted textiles, region by region — from West and North Africa to East, Central, and Southern Africa.

This volume explores weaving techniques, loom types, materials, and natural dyes while grounding each textile tradition in its cultural context — shaped by religion, trade, fashion, gender roles, and lineage.

Featuring 585 illustrations (572 in color), the book highlights Ashanti and Ewe stripweaves, Yoruba lace weaves, Malian bogolanfini mud cloth, Berber textiles, Ethiopian weaving, Southern African beadwork, and silk and raphia traditions of Madagascar.

Both a visual archive and a practical reference, complete with glossary and collection guide — essential for textile artists, collectors, and anyone studying global material culture.

African Textiles Color and Creativity Across a Continent by John Gillow 2009

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