I'm in Vientiane - the capitol of Laos this week. I had the pleasure of meeting Carol Cassidy, a textile artist who established Lao Textiles here back in 1990. Carol was a textile expert with the United Nations Development Program when she arrived here. She employs 40 weavers; mostly women who work right here in her studio (a gorgeous French Colonial Mansion).
Carol's work can be found all over the world in prominent galleries and museums. She is currently working with landmine victims in Cambodia (who have no limbs) where they are weaving these beautiful striped silk scarves on modified weave looms which she developed. The weavers use special prosthetics etc. Really inspiring stuff!
Great post Chris - it's always lovely to hear a positive story how working with textiles can make a difference in people's lives. I hope you are having a wonderful (textile-y) time in Laos!
ReplyDeleteOh wow, this is fantastic! How wonderful that people without limbs can weave such beautiful cloths! Thanks for sharing this. I'd love to visit Lao Textiles one day. Wini xo
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