Pamanang Pinoy: Weaving

Description: In this interactive program, we will explore the role of textiles, whether draped, layered, hung, or worn, as sites of artistic virtuosity, intellectual rigor, resistance, and source of power for Filipinx weavers and textile-makers. The first half will be a presentation by artist and educator PJ Gubatina Policarpio on the poetics of reclaiming and decolonizing precolonial Filipinx textiles in the contemporary world. The second half will be a workshop engaging participants with hands on backstrap weaving following the textile traditions of the Philippines facilitated by Loren Ibach. Using materials provided, participants will learn how to set up a back strap loom and how to start the weaving process. All ages and levels of experience are invited to this weaving circle. Participants will be encouraged to bring their back strap looms home to finish their own weavings. On view will be a selection of objects and archival images from the Museum’s Philippines Collection highlighting the richly diverse textile-making traditions across the archipelago. PJ Gubatina Policarpio co-curate this event. Part II of this workshop will be an informal critique allowing weaving circle participants to reflect and share their experience with back strap weaving. This critique will take place at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago's Fiber and Material Studies Department. Participants will receive a brief tour of the weaving studio.