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Printed cloth, and the role as both fashion and a form of expression have held a long and prominent history in West and Central Africa. Not merely looked upon as a method for covering the body but steeped with significance to mark special events, political and social figures or the death of a loved one. Printed cloth was more than just a garment.

Vast numbers of transcontinental traders had been buying and selling cloth on the continent for hundreds of years. But it was the Dutch introducing of Indonesian inspired wax-print fabric in the late 19^th century that would captivate and ultimately become an African style all its own. Dynamic and exuberantly colorful and rich with pattern, the print fabric exemplifies the cultural heritage and identity of those wearing it.  

African-Print Fashion Now! A Story of Taste, Globalization, and Style introduces audiences to the dynamic traditions of African dress featuring colorful, boldly patterned printed cloth. The exhibition highlights the interplay between regional preferences and cosmopolitanism that has long flourished on the continent, while highlighting the expansiveness of 21st century African-print fashion.

With over 60 tailored fashions, several walls of stunningly displayed wax-printed cloths, jewelry, shoes and other accessories, this show is a feast for the eyes of any quilter. Pattern, color and texture will set your creative juices on fire.

The traveling exhibition is currently at the Memphis Brooks Art Museum through August 12, 2018. It will be at the Mint Museum in Randolph, NC from October 5, 2018- April 28, 2019.

TQS recently had a chance to visit the Memphis Brooks Art Museum. Marina Pacini (Chief Curator of the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art) shares the history of the museum and an overview of the exhition.

Want to learn how African graffiti artists are combining print fabric with their tag work, ready to wear African print garments are becoming the 'in' garments. Watch more videos below.

African-Print Fashion Now!: Curator Leslie Rabine from Fowler Museum.

African-Print Fashion Now!: Designer Alexis Temomanin from Fowler Museum.