Resources
Textile and Calligraphy Arts of Morocco
Textile and Calligraphy
Looking at the art of Lalla Essaydi.
SS.C.01 (K-3) Describe the cultural aspects of a place, including a student’s community and state. Identify various cultural groups within the U.S. and the students’ community.
3.VA.R1.B Speculate about processes an artist uses to create a work of art.
4.VA.Cn1.A Create art that communicates the cultural traditions of one’s community. 5.VA.Cn1.A Create art based on personal experiences, current interests, and surroundings.
6.VA.R1.B Identify and interpret works of art that reveal a variety of world cultures and values.
7-8.VA.Cr2.B Demonstrate awareness of ethical responsibility and the use of images, materials, tools, and equipment in the creation and presentation of original work.
HS3.VA.Cr1.A Envision and hypothesize creative risks and their implications while determining plans and direction of art-making.
Students will be able to:
- Observe examples of Moroccan textiles and patterns
- Learn about the impact and importance of calligraphy in Islamic art
- Connect the symbolisms of pattern and calligraphy to the art of Lalla Essaydi and her use of these elements in her art
- Make textile art using mark making and patterns
About
Textiles and Calligraphy in photographs by Lalla Essaydi
Lalla Essaydi covers her models, and sometimes their garments and walls, in layers of hand-painted henna calligraphy, subverting traditional Muslim gender stereotypes through the presence of the written word. The sacred Islamic art form of calligraphy, traditionally reserved exclusively for men, is used by Essaydi as a small act of defiance against a culture in which women are relegated to the private sphere. Furthermore, by creating this calligraphy with henna, an art traditionally employed by women for women, Essaydi fully reclaims the female voice. The performative process and the resulting photographs allow Essaydi to push and pull the boundaries between East and West, male and female, past and present.
Activity 1
ACTIVITY SUGGESTIONS
Create repeating patterns and/or text and then transfer the patterns onto fabric.
On scratch paper, practice making patterns using lines, dashes, swirls, repeated words, and other mark making. Patterns can be linear, like writing and calligraphy, or a radial design, starting in the center and moving outwards in circular patterns. Look at examples of Essaydi’s work and textiles from Morocco for inspiration while also making your own unique marks, patterns, and language-inspired designs.
Consider that these items will be worn by you or another person—how does that influence the patterns, words, or marks you make on the textiles?
INSTRUCTIONS
- Place cardboard or other protective material under the fabric you will be decorating.
- Use paint/fabric markers, permanent markers and pens to transfer your image onto fabric. You can use a single, monochromatic pattern or choose color(s) based on the mood or symbolic impact that connects to the meaning behind your work as well as your own personal aesthetic.
- Display and share completed textiles as they would be worn or displayed. Take photos to share while discussing the marks and writing chosen for the work.4. Tag #huntermuseum if sharing on social media!
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