The Queen of Textiles

Years ago, I was whisked, gobsmacked, through the galleries of India’s textile collection at the Calico Museum in Ahmedabad. Floor to ceiling wealth dripped from every inch of its dark walls, wealth in the currency of color and weave, communal legacy, and a mind-shattering genius of skill. Hand-painted Kalamkari from Andhra Pradesh, woven Jamdani from West Bengal, Madras from Tamil Nadu, Banarasi silk, Bandini tie and dye, intricate Chikankari embroidery, phulkaris from the Punjab, block-printed Ajrakh cotton from Gujarat. . . .each region speaking in a cultural language of cloth uniquely their own. Each piece an outrageous beauty that took my breath away. In the history of the world, India is the queen of textiles—this I have always believed. But here, in a personal audience with the queen, I was utterly undone, undressed, brimming with tears only beauty can wrest from our souls.

I consider it an honor to be a part of bringing this wealth to Charleston next March as we celebrate our Ibu Global Champions from India and spotlight their glorious textiles still crafted by the power in women's hands. At our mini-summit on March 5, three brilliant leaders will share the heart of their diverse traditions, the innovation they've brought to bear, and the challenges still being faced. At the gala that evening, we'll see their stunning works on the runway, eat the ripe, seasoned goodness of India's table, and celebrate under the riotous colors of the Holi festival.

It's enough to bring you to Charleston, here in the most beautiful season of our year, I hope. I would love for you to touch this beauty, and support the women who keep it alive. It's a different kind of wealth—this beauty, this power, this explosive joy.

Holi Hai!

Susan Hull Walker