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Fabrics of Africa: Weaving Culture and Community. Image property of Kaneko.

Fabrics of Africa: Weaving Culture and Community. Image property of Kaneko.

By Abigail Gocek

Exhibit Showcases African Textiles in Omaha

February 11th, 2025

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For many cultures, traditional artistry not only shows the historical significance of the people but tells their story as well. Curator Suzanne Gunn brings the celebration of traditional African textiles to Omaha through her exhibit, Fabrics of Africa: Weaving Culture and Community.  

Raised in Kenya, Gunn’s ties to her home country inspire her work as a fashion designer. With 54 countries, Africa boasts a rich history in textiles. Gunn’s career as a fashion designer has led her to participate in both Omaha Fashion Week and Afromaha, Omaha’s African Fashion Week.  

Gunn travels often to curate the fabrics she uses within her fashion. Her experience at an exhibit on African garments in London drove her to focus specifically on textiles, rather than fashion, for her own exhibit. She decided to create an educational, interactive experience where the public could learn about the historical significance of each fabric.  

Artisans across Africa entirely handcrafted the textiles featured in the exhibit. Each piece will be exhibited in its raw form to showcase how the fabric is made and the places it comes from.  

Fabrics of Africa: Weaving Culture and Community is open now at the Kaneko building in Omaha’s Old Market and runs through April 27.

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