Art for Families: A Beaded Tradition
Artist unrecorded (Ndebele), South Africa, Itjogolo apron, mid-20th century. Princeton University Art Museum. Museum purchase, Mary Trumbull Adams Art Fund
Saturdays are for young makers in the Creativity Labs! Stop by and create beadwork inspired by a South African Ndebele apron.
Drop in anytime between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. to explore a work of art, play with different materials, and exercise your imagination. Come for fifteen minutes or two hours—whatever your schedule allows. All ages are welcome; no tickets or reservations required.
An itjogolo is an apron with five fingerlike panels worn by Ndebele women on special occasions. Many family members contribute to making an itjogolo, which is often given as a gift when a woman gets married. Explore the apron's beadwork pattern and design a beaded bracelet to share or wear for your own special occasions. We provide the materials, you bring the creativity!
This series is part of Arts and Health Mercer, a month-long collaboration between Mercer County arts and cultural organizations that celebrates the vital role art plays in our health and wellbeing. Visit the Arts and Health Mercer website for a full listing of related events.
