CAG on museums: Kangas at the British Museum

There is currently a temporary exhibition on at the British Museum that features the kanga and other textile traditions from south and east Africa. These garments are principally women's wear, and can act as a social commentary on politics, religion, or other social issues.

Modern kanga prints differ considerably from their nineteenth century version. Originally made by sewing together printed handkerchiefs, today's rectangular textiles have a continuous printed border and design in the middle, and are usually very colorful. Events such as the American presidential election in 2008 inspired the production of Barack Obama printed kangas to celebrate the election of an American president with Kenyan heritage.

These African textiles can be seen in Room 91 of the British Museum until April 21st. Below is a video describing the production and use of kanga in Tanzania.

Kanga For Women