Morocco is very well positioned to capitalize on a natural dye revival. It has a flourishing carpet industry. And, even though moroccan carpets do not enjoy the prestige given to Persian or Turkish works they are still a viable item of trade supported by the rural infrastructure. Weaving skills persist and women can gain additional income without disrupting domestic life or entering a factory environment.


What have largely vanished are dyeing skills. The local markets are a source of much misinformation. The large tourist centers make fantastic claims of natural dye use that have no basis in any tradition. Tourists are frequently told that greens are obtained from mint leaves and reds from rose petals. With natural dye knowledge back in the hands of artisans they can once again make the weavings that distinguish the tribal cultures of Morocco.

After a slide show, Kongthong delivered a very personal exhibition of the textiles she had brought with her. Kongthong, who studied and received a Masters degree in Russia, returned to Laos to dedicate herself to weaving. The Maiwa presentation was one in a series given to raise the profile of Laotian textiles. Karen Selk, of Treenway Silks (www.treenwaysilks.com) organized a similar event on Salt Spring Island and in Victoria, BC.

Kongthong was overwhelmed with the turnout and extremely happy with the sales. She returned to Laos the following day.

Our recent collaboration with Chai Gallery, "One Night on the Silk Road" was a night to be remembered indeed. Here we see one of the lucky raffle winners, Chika (who also sang at the event) with a collection of 4 DVDs, an ajrakh scarf and a wooden printing block, all contained in an antique teak platter.