The publication is part of Yto Barrada’s project for the French pavilion at the Venice Biennale. It aims to report on the research carried out by Barrada, focusing on the intricate relationship between textiles and cultural narratives.
Scheduled for release in the summer of 2026, the book will include a glossary that relates to dyeing, fabrics, and textile techniques. This glossary will highlight polysemous terms, showcasing how meanings can shift based on context.
In a unique approach, the publication will feature ‘plates’ where images take center stage, while text is strategically placed in the margins. This design choice seeks to subvert traditional Western bookish codes and challenge the academic primacy of text over visuals.
Myriam Ben Salah will contribute an introduction to the book, setting the stage for the diverse perspectives that will be woven throughout the publication. Additionally, an essay by anthropologist Arnaud Dubois will be included, enriching the reader’s understanding of the themes presented.
Furthermore, the publication will feature an unpublished contribution by historian Marcel Bénabou, adding depth to the exploration of textile practices and their cultural significance.
As noted, the book aims to weave numerous perspectives and vanishing lines, extending the experience of the Venice exhibition. This approach invites readers to engage with the material in a dynamic and interactive manner.
In this ‘subjective encyclopedia’, the reader forks and drifts at the whim of associations and cross-references, notably to the introductory glossary. This format encourages a more fluid interaction with the content, allowing for personal interpretations and connections.
Observers anticipate that the publication will not only serve as an academic resource but also as a visual experience that challenges conventional narratives in art and culture.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding additional contributors or specific themes that may emerge as the publication date approaches. However, the excitement surrounding Barrada’s project continues to grow as the art community looks forward to this innovative exploration of textiles.
