rusty wrote:
Richard, As a collector of tribal textiles, I always keep my eye on other collections and dealers via the internet or in person when applicable. I have been to a few shops in the states that claim to sell tribal textiles. I have also visited many sites via the internet. For the most part, the mass marketed merchandise tends to be acculturated textiles. This is a process of altering the authentic design, style and motif to suit the western markets. I would not call these items tribal textiles. These textiles might better be described as textiles made by tribal people. Once an item is marketed for the masses, the process is altered and caters primarily to profit. Many, if not all, of the traditional techniques are either shortcutted or eliminated in order to expidite the process. I believe a true tribal textile is a garment that is produced for the tribe.In your attempt to market tribal textiles, I would suggest promoting the traditional means and methods of textile production within the tribe. It is up to us in the western markets to learn and appreciate their culture not vice versa. Best of luck, Rusty