Images of Commemorative Fabrics from Africa
University of Wisconsin–Madison
Commemorative Fabrics from Africa is a collection of machine-made commemorative textiles from various African countries. This collection provides researchers access to digitized fabrics that are printed with images and text documenting events and individuals of historical, political, religious, economic, educational, and sociological significance to African societies. Throughout the continent, fabric serves multiple functions in people's daily lives. It is used for clothing, shelter, storage, and packing material. The type of African fabric found in this collection also serves as a communication device. When used as a textual and visual document, the fabric becomes a vehicle to commemorate an event or to celebrate a person's life or achievement. One does not need to know how to read in order to understand the messages found in these textiles. In societies where a large portion of the population cannot read, the visual elements enable everyone to share in the reception and transmission of the message that is being conveyed. In this way, the fabric also serves to preserve historical narratives that are important to the community. The pieces in this collection were graciously donated by UW faculty, staff, students, alumni, and other individuals outside the UW.
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French
This fabric is in support of Ali Saibou, the president of the National Movement for the Development of Society (MNSD). His portrait is featured in the center. The blue background …
French
On a pink background, this International Women’s Day fabric features a geometric pattern of diamond stripes in red, gold, and brown. The central emblem is a brown and gold globe, …
English
This fabric supports 2009 candidate for the Gabonese Democratic Party, Ali Bongo Ondimba. Featured is a portrait of the president, an image used in his campaign, and the emblem for …
French
This fabric commemorates nursery schools for young children and maternal classes for mothers. The black and navy geometric background displays an image of children playing in a schoolyard while two …
French
This pink fabric commemorates Pope John Paul II. There is an ornate blue and gold design bordering the top and bottom as well as the recurring images of Pope John …
French
This fabric celebrates the 50th anniversary of independence in Côte d’Ivoire. On a white background decorated with green and orange swirls and stars, the central emblem that repeats throughout the …
French
Cloth promoting the University of Buea in Buea, Cameroon. This cloth features the seal of the University of Buea set against a blue and green checkered background. Within the seal …
English
This fabric commemorates the 10 year anniversary of the privatization of Cameroon’s state-owned electricity company. The text features the name and slogan of the privatized company, AES-Sonel, Energizing Cameroon. The …
English
This soft, light-weight cloth is a bright blue color with white block letters reading "I Love Somalia" and "Somalia" in a repeating pattern. The design of the fabric mimics the …
English
This fabric designed for the 2017 International Women’s Day in Cameroon features a repeating pattern of a central emblem surrounded by various mottos of the event on a pink and …