Brock Karen E., Jun Wang, Li Zeng, Ligon Linda. Every Thread a Story & The Secret Language of Miao Embroidery

Thrums Books, 2020. — 160 p.Every Thread a Story is a tribute to ethnic minority artisans of China’s Guizhou Province. It is also a tribute to the heritage craft traditions and techniques passed down through the generations of their families. The book introduces more than a dozen contemporary artists from four ethnic groups working in the techniques of their ancestors, including indigo dyers, embroiderers of varying techniques, weavers, a metalsmith, and a paper maker. A wide-ranging look to the future questions the effects of tourism and modern development on the craft and culture of southeast Guizhou Province. The Secret Language of Miao Embroidery presents, for the first-time, expert interpretations of the Miao symbols and motifs embellished on traditional clothing of the Miao peoples of China. Using examples from pieces in a museum’s collection, the author provides clear descriptions and stories for 60 symbols and motifs found in highly collectible Miao textiles, focusing on southeast Guizhou Province. Detailed color photographs accompany each motif.Karen Elting Brock is the associate publisher of Thrums Books. Since earning a B.A. in English from Guizhou University in 1996, Wan Jun has been an international tour guide, specializing in the ethnic minority areas of Guizhou. Zeng Li has served as the director of the Miao’s Tales Costumes Museum in Guiyang for twelve years. Linda Ligon is the publisher of Thrums Books.