International Arts Consortium 2002-3

Nigerian Textile Arts

During winter 2002-03 artist Toyin Ajayi conducted a residency for all John Stanford International School students in Nigerian textile arts, with design and dyeing techniques modified as appropriate for each grade level, K-5. All JSIS teachers were first introduced to the cultural diversity of Nigeria through examples of its many textiles, which Ms. Ajayi shared from her personal collection. Teachers also experimented with paste for resist dyeing techniques, and discussed suggestions for pre-residency activities with their students. During a similar introduction for students, Ms. Ajayi led a discussion of images, colors and symbols in both Nigeria and in the students’ own environments. Each student produced an individual piece (a headband) and collaborated on a group piece with other students in the same grade: K-1 students produced a robe; grades 2-3 students produced a quilt; Bilingual Orientation Center students produced a banner; grades 4-5 students produced wall hangings (textiles and design by students; stitching by Ms. Ajayi and parent volunteers). The textiles were formally presented to the community at the International Arts Celebration in May. Artists from Rakumi Arts (Carl Smool and Yemisi Ajayi) provided many hours of help in preparation and in the classroom, as did many parents.