Creating Zurashi: A Conversation with Textile Artists Rowland and Chinami Ricketts

“You can do it easily, or you can do it well.” – Ikat Weaver Chinami Ricketts
When entering the galleries of “Ikat: A World of Compelling Cloth” at SAM, visitors are immediately struck by Zurashi/Slipped, the massive hanging ikat crafted by artists Rowland and Chinami Ricketts. Commissioned specifically for SAM’s galleries by exhibition curator Pam McClusky, this incredible installation includes a total of 1,008 bundles of yarn—with each being composed of 48 threads measuring 25 yards—dyed and woven by the artists themselves. After installing the artwork in our galleries, we sat down with Chinami and Rowland to learn more about the many months it took to create this monumental work and the significance of seeing and understanding handmade textiles. Visit the exhibition at SAM’s downtown location through Monday, May 29 to see the artwork for yourself and discover over 100 more beautiful handwoven textiles from around the world.
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IKAT: A WORLD OF COMPELLING CLOTH
Seattle Art Museum
Mar 9 – May 29, 2023
visitsam.org/ikat