January 27, 2009
William Kennedy, an art loving client and Facebook friend, recently shared his favorite photos of 2008. When I saw this image I was thrilled. You see, I love textiles in general and rugs in particular. When I discuss custom rugs with my clients I am eager to share how the process of rug making works and the design opportunities. Sharing this photo of the natural dye pigments is an opportunity to show the beginning of the process.
Necessary of course are the sheep, llamas and alpacas who add the wool to combine with the dyes for yarn. The yarns unite the artisan weaver and the designer to create motifs for the myriad designs. Subtle variations in colors in combination with intricate designs result in richly vivid details. The themes and images deliver a treasured rug to be shared for generations.
All the dye options you see in the photo are natural. Dyes like those shown in the photo are used by Peruvians to make textiles, belts, ponchos and wall hangings as well as rugs. Central to the heritage and customs of Peru are weaving and everyone weaves in Peru. The designs pass from generation to generation along with the techniques. Thus rug and textile making is preserved for the future.
William, his wife and two sons, explored South America and this photo was taken in Peru. I asked William and his family to comment about their insights from visiting Peru and seeing the textile process. I hope you will enjoy hearing their first hand impressions.
Next, I asked Brad Andonian, of Pande Cameron in Seattle to join in as a guest blogger. Brad represents the third generation of family ownership of this highly regarded rug importer. With locations in Seattle and Bellevue, Pande Cameron proudly serves metro Seattle as a leading resource for fine imported rugs.
WE'VE BEEN INVITED TO JOIN BLOGTOUR NYC!
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