Join master artist Gasali Adeyemo for an inspiring and visually rich presentation exploring the history, symbolism, and cultural significance of Yoruba resist-dyeing traditions. Drawing from his upbringing in rural Nigeria and his training at the renowned Nike Center for Arts and Culture, Adeyemo shares personal stories of learning to dye from his mother and the deep meanings embedded in traditional adire cloth.
In this talk, Adeyemo will introduce the audience to various Yoruba textile techniques (including batik [adire alabela], cassava paste resist [adire eleko], and tie-dye), demonstrating how each process carries symbolic, biographical, and spiritual significance. He will also discuss the harvesting of wild indigo, the preparation of natural dyes, and the role of handwoven cotton in his work.
Through his vivid storytelling and striking textiles, Adeyemo brings to life the role of fiber art in preserving Yoruba identity, celebrating community milestones, and adapting cultural heritage for future generations.
About the Instructor:
Gasali Adeyemo was born and raised in Ofatedo, a small rural village in Osun State, Nigeria, where he discovered his passion for art at a young age and supported his education by sketching portraits at local gatherings. He later trained at the Nike Center for Arts and Culture, mastering traditional Yoruba textile arts such as batik, indigo dyeing, quilting, and embroidery, and went on to teach these skills to students from around the world. After his work was exhibited in Germany in 1995, his reputation grew internationally, leading to opportunities to teach and exhibit in the United States and beyond. Gasali now resides in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and continues to share the rich artistic traditions of the Yoruba people through global workshops and exhibitions.
INCLUSION & ACCESSIBILITY:
Please contact us if you require any accommodations to make your visit safe and comfortable.
CANCELLATION POLICY:
Due to the nature of this event, fees are non-refundable.
A limited number of half-price seats are available for students or community members who otherwise could not afford to attend. To inquire about availability, please e-mail us.