Good Beginnings: Children’s Hats and Clothing from China
One of the most eloquent textile expressions of China is the embroidery undertaken for the delight and protection of children. Among the most elaborate are hats in the shapes of animals, as well as collars, bibs, vests and shoes brightly decorated and embellished with good luck symbols. For festivals and special occasions, Chinese mothers and grandmothers dressed their children in handmade hats representing powerful animals – tigers, dragons, rabbits, and bats which were believed to bestow a child with strength and power, frighten away evil spirits and ensure a prosperous future.
Presented to commemorate the Textile Museum of Canada’s 40th anniversary, this exhibition draws from one of the largest and earliest donations to the Museum’s collections and celebrates the richness of Chinese culture and traditions.
Related Programs and Events
Opening Reception
Wednesday February 11 from 6:30– 8 pm
Please join us for the opening reception of Good Beginnings at the Textile Museum of Canada. The curators will be in attendance and light refreshments will be served.
Free with admission.
Exhibition Tour with Special Guest John Vollmer
Friday February 27, 6:30–8 pm
Join John Vollmer, internationally recognized curator and scholar specializing in Asian art and textiles on a tour of the exhibition. John Vollmer has a deep familiarity with the TMC’s Chinese textiles, having worked closely with the collection over the years.
General Admission $12, Members $8, Full-time students Pay-What-You-Can
Advance registration is required, space is limited. To register, call 416-599-5321 x2228
March Break Make & Take
March 16-20, 1–4 pm daily
Join us daily in the Museum’s interactive gallery for a March Break full of hands-on activities. Families can make and take home creative projects inspired by the TMC’s exhibitions. On Wednesday March 18, come to our special workshop and create an animal-themed hat that reflects your own unique personality.
Suitable for visitors age 5 and up; children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult
Free with admission; no pre-registration required
Textile Seminar: Chinese Garments from the TMC Collection
Wednesday April 22 at 6:30 pm
Join TMC curators Roxane Shaughnessy and Natalia Nekrassova for a behind-the-scenes exploration of the TMC’s extensive collection of Chinese garments. This is a unique opportunity for an intimate look at the distinctive techniques and iconography that define these early 20th-century textiles.
General admission $25; Members $20; Full-time students Pay-What-You-Can
Advance registration is required, space is limited. To register, call 416-599-5321 x2228
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