I am writing this post after reading another one about textile art, and I don't believe in coincidences or chance, but rather in causality. It was inspiring to read lines that coincide with what I feel when I go to art exhibitions, whatever their style. And I hope that feeling spreads and that more people can see art in this way.
When we artists create our works, we put our energy into them. The works, the paintings, fabrics, embroidery, sculptures and much more are made with our hands, and that fact alone means that the works of art have a part of us in them. I always say that one of my paintings is like a child to me.
I went to this art exhibition with a friend, but this friend knows a lot about sewing and this subject, and I am glad to have shared these moments with her, and I dedicate this to her. I know she will read this and possibly be moved.
As we walked around the room, she told me and the guide and security guard that she had an acquaintance who had spent many years embroidering a shawl and who had no dependents. Who would she leave this work of art to? A niece, perhaps. But I think it doesn't matter who she leaves it to after she's gone from this world, because her work is a true work of art and was made with love.
As I looked at each Manila shawl, I thought about the embroidery, the threads, the details, the materials used and, above all, the history behind them, a history that dates back to the first shawls made by the Chinese and how, through trade, they reached Spain and other parts of the world, with each place they reached imprinting its own style on them.
My friend was impressed by this display of art, and so was I. She asked me how they were made, how they managed to give some parts, such as the leaves, volume. I was happy to see her so enthusiastic and cheerful.
The natural silk and the embroidery in silk threads, whether in the same colour or in various colours, have a unique quality, shine and splendour.
Each shawl I saw was more spectacular than the last, and here I want to express my feeling of absolute beauty, beyond the importance of the history they carry. It is absolute art, and I imagine both men and women embroidering these shawls, since the first ones to do so here in Spain were men. I imagine the dedication, delicacy and detail, plus the effort they put into each embroidery. Once again, I say it is wonderful.
In addition, the museum was decorated with authentic Chinese chests, trunks and vases, as the shawls are of Chinese origin. Every corner of the museum and every room was of the highest quality. Being there was like navigating through magical art. I looked at my friend's face; she was so happy that it made me happy too.
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The Chinese shawls were unique in that the designs were scenes from life in the country, but they also used various materials to decorate them, such as mother-of-pearl and silver, which gave them their own wonderful style. Art definitely has no limits.
Just look at the details I was able to photograph on this occasion. I couldn't get too close because there was a rope marking the boundary. I understand this safety measure and did my best to see the details more closely. I chose the most representative photographs and the ones that came out best.
Spanish shawls also have their own style, shine and charm. Just look at this gold thread embroidery. It was my friend's favourite.
In my case, these two with floral motifs were my favourites. They are charming. My friend explained to me that they are now normally worn at fairs or on special occasions such as weddings, and that you can wear a black dress and the shawl adds elegance. I liked the concept.
On this walk through the exhibition, I not only saw wonderful art, but I also learned about history and, even more, personal experiences like my friend's. That way, this art is seen in greater depth when told by someone who was born here and has experienced it first-hand. What a wonderful experience.
Thank you all very much for joining me today. I wish you a very good Sunday. See you soon.
Amonet.
All photographs are my own.
