“Wandering Spirit: African Wax Prints” documents the history and development of the handmade designs and patterns on textiles that originated in Indonesia and were copied and industrialized by Europeans and exported to Africa. The exhibition, curated by Dr. Gifty Benson and organized by ExhibitsUSA/Mid-America Arts Alliance of Kansas City, Missouri, traces the developmental pathway of the African wax print and tells how these fabrics reflect the stories, cultures and personalities of the people who wear them. The exhibition runs Oct. 24 through Nov. 23.

In conjunction with “Wandering Spirit: African Wax Prints,” there will also be a reading and book signing by Department of English faculty member Chigozie Obioma, assistant professor of literature and creative writing, at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 1. The event is free and open to the public as well as the university community.

Image: King’s Chair Dress Form, introduced in 1980, manufactured by Vlisco, Netherlands; Dutch Wax Block on cotton, 59 x 15 1/2 inches; Courtesy of Beatrice Benson Collection.