What role does fabric play in decolonizing artistic material practices?

Fabric plays a pivotal role in decolonizing artistic material practices by reclaiming cultural narratives and challenging Eurocentric dominance in art. As a medium deeply rooted in indigenous and local traditions, textiles carry histories, identities, and resistance. Artists today use fabric to subvert colonial aesthetics, integrating traditional weaving, dyeing, and embroidery techniques into contemporary works. This shift not only honors marginalized knowledge but also redefines artistic value beyond Western paradigms. By centering fabric, creators dismantle hierarchies of materials, fostering inclusivity and empowering communities to preserve and reinterpret their heritage. Ultimately, fabric becomes a powerful tool for decolonization, weaving together past and present in the fight for cultural sovereignty.