While nearly all indigo produced today is synthetic, many people still practice the magical traditional dyeing methods which make it so special.
Naturally dyed indigo fabric is one of the most textiles due to its . It reflects light in a way that is very different from fabrics made with chemical indigo dyes.
A
of blues can be produced with natural indigo, a range not possible with chemical dyes.
Indigo is such a versatile dye that it can produce highly saturated levels of
that retreat inwards, and de-saturated that are open and expansive.
The properties of indigo dye remained
well into the 19th century.
It was perplexing how fabric soaked in an the air transformed into a beautiful
liquid could emerge into hue.
The dye was so
to work with that folklore arose around the process.
In Bhutan, pregnant women were not allowed near the dyeing vat in case the unborn babies
.
In Morocco, the only way to deal with a particularly challenging vat was to start telling
.
In Southern Arabia it warded off evil spirits. Â Indigo was smeared on bodies as a
.
In Egypt, an incantation while burning salt stained blue with indigo would appease spirits. In Africa, medicine men made widespread use of indigo, believing placing the dye on a child’s head would draw out worms.
The craftsmanship process of natural indigo dyeing seen today evolved from its rich history. Many artists are using indigo dye in unique and magical ways, creating enchanting blues that radiate personalities.
Louisa Boyd’s work is inspired by the world and its connection to man. She is fascinated by the innate human response to nature and combines an array of blues with glistening to show the spiritual side of nature.
Boyd works with wood and stone and is interested in the interaction that occurs between the materials she uses and symbols.
The work of Japanese fiber artist Shihoko Fukumoto shimmers in profound beauty. Her translucent materials combined with the rich, hues of her indigo dyes her fibers with an aura that of a mystical experience.
Fukumoto says, “Indigo is the color of my dreams. The characteristic of indigo is its hue, which has a highly spiritual element and beauty.�
uses
She uses the moon and a
by submerging photographic paper into rivers at night.
to create the exposure. Her images
other-worldly layers of meaning.
Her approach is experimental, a constant search for new cameraless methods of recording
Derges’s work takes on a metaphorical dimension that echoes the inner life of the
imagery.
and
.
expresses his passion in a . Each hue echoes a unique and profound emotion. Each creation evokes timeless serenity.
Boro is a textured fabric that has been produced for centuries by patching together pieces of indigo-dyed cotton and hemp in Japan.
The ancient art of natural indigo embraces the soul. Today, Fofana uses this blue magic, infusing it with a and a modern feel.
The hand-stitched recycled scraps create a
.
Indigo Dye is and . Its thick and chunky texture a vat like lava seeping from a volcano.
out of
Using painting, collage, and paper making, Takahiko Hayashi makes beautiful textured abstractions. Lines swirl and textures soften and modulate creating .. Hayashi seeps vibrant color in a spiritual world.
Indigo’s charm stems from the imaginative and whimsical feelings Dark Magic evokes. The magical hue concocts a dreamy midnight potion where make-believe creatures come out to play.
Textile artists create beautiful patterns on indigo dyed fabric. The patterns are alluring and intricate and enhance the mystique of indigo.
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The lure of indigo dye emanates from the enchanting hues it creates. Throughout time indigo has mystified and captivated cultures around the world. While predominantly used as a dye for fabric, today artists are using indigo in magical ways.