Blue Gold: The Art and Science of Indigo

Blue Gold at Mingei International Museum explores the extraordinary process of transforming plants into pigments. Indigo boasts a long and multifaceted history of cultivation, production, and distribution, resonating with anyone who loves the colour blue and is curious about the chemistry and indigenous knowledge behind its creation. Blue Gold presents indigo as a compelling fusion of art and science. Over 180 works from 30 countries are featured, including objects from Mingei’s permanent collection, pieces on loan from national and international organisations, and commissioned works by talented artists and craftspeople such as Christina Kim and Porfirio Gutiérrez. Learn about Featured Artists and Collaborations here.

Image: Collection of Mingei International Museum, 2016-125-010. Gift of Barb Rich. Photo credit Ron Kerner. Image above: Collection of Mingei International Museum, 2020-009-027. Gift of Barb Rich. Photo credit Ron Kerner.

The indigo dye process involves grinding leaves from the Indigofera plant into powder, boiling the powder into a rich liquid, and fermenting it to complete a transformative chemical reaction. Used for thousands of years across all continents and cultures, indigo dye has a heritage that transcends other dyeing methods. From ancient Mesopotamia to present-day West Africa, indigo's beauty and ubiquity have often overshadowed the harsh realities of its production, including labor exploitation, pollution, and its associations with colonialism and slavery. This exhibition highlights the importance of nuanced conversations that celebrate beauty while acknowledging a grim past.

Image: Gift of Richard Sternback.

The exhibition spans from 7th-century textiles to 20th-century kimonos, showcasing brilliant textiles and contemporary works of art and craft from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. It also examines indigo’s various uses in science, spiritual practice, and beyond.

Upon entering the gallery, visitors will be immersed in a sea of blue hues. Indigo-dyed objects, specimens, and stories are supplemented with themes such as:

• What Is Indigo?
• Uses of Indigo
• From Plant to Dye
• Indigo Dyeing Techniques Around the World
• The Legacy of Indigo Trade
• The Rise of Synthetics and Rebirth of Natural Indigo
  
  

Image: Gift of Dr. and Mrs. Allen Chao and The Hamilton White Foundation.

In Mingei Studio, young visitors can engage with educational activities and hands-on demonstrations that walk through the steps of indigo dyeing from plant to pigment.

Find out more and plan your visit:
mingei.org/exhibitions/blue-gold