Island Tapestries: Special Exhibition of Ancient Austronesian Clothing and Adornments

Clothing replaced fur, providing humans with warmth, sun protection, modesty, and protection from external harm like scratches, punctures, cuts, and abrasions. From the earliest animal skin garments, through cutting and sewing, to using plant fibers for beating, twisting threads, and weaving, human attire has evolved with changes in times, environment, and technology. Different ethnic groups in various regions also developed distinct garment-making traditions. Furthermore, clothing embodies cultural and social symbolism; the styles, color combinations, and patterns used all carry representative meanings and traditional spirits. This special exhibition centers on Austronesian peoples, exploring ancient textile techniques like barkcloth and weaving, as well as modern emerging crafts. It invites us to rediscover the cultural significance embedded in Austronesian attire and to learn about the sustainable living wisdom of ancient peoples who lived in harmony with nature.