The ancient textile weaving traditions of the Atayal aboriginal people of Taiwan will be showcased at the British Library on May 11 and 12 as part of the 2018 London Craft Week.
Taiwanese weavers Lin Shu-li and Chen Hsiu-yu, who will travel to London to present a series of workshops and demonstrations at the craft week, have also completed a special piece of work that will be presented for the British Library collection at the opening reception on May 11.
The Atayal people are well known for their timeless textile-weaving traditions. Lin, who was taught by the elders of her tribal community, combines Atayal weaving techniques with the colors, textures, and practices of modern design. Her works place a particular emphasis on balancing tradition with environmental protection and sustainability.
Chen picked up weaving over a decade ago with hook and loom as a way to reconnect with her heritage and understand the Atayal experience of making clothes and quilts using this method. Moreover, the processing of collecting ramie – from harvesting to cutting and peeling – was deeply ingrained in her childhood memories.
Visitors will have the chance to join Lin and Chen for Atayal weaving workshops and demonstrations during the two-day event at the British Library. Free admission – no advanced booking required.
Follow the Cultural Division of the Taipei Representative Office in the UK for more information on Taiwan culture-themed events in the UK.
'Atayal Weavers of Taiwan at the British Library'
- Date: May 11 – 12, 2018
- Venue: British Library
- Address: 96 Euston Road, London, NW1 2DB
- Demonstration Hours: 11am – 4.30pm
- Admission: Booking not necessary, free
- Site: https://www.bl.uk/events/atayal-weavers-of-taiwan-11-may-2018
http://www.londoncraftweek.com/events/atayal-weavers-taiwan-british-library
