Friday, May 25, 2012
Moda Goa : history and style / Wendell Rodricks ; photographs by Mark Sequeira
This book is the very first effort to document the unique history of the
costumes of Goa – a tiny Indian state on its west coast. Taking a dispassionate
look at the events throughout the Goan history: from the earliest times, it
shows how Goa came to evolve its distinctive garment style -- which is a unique
blend of “international aesthetic and Indian emotion”.
The author explores the influences of the early tribes, Buddhists, Jainas,
Hindus, Muslims, the Portuguese and, finally, of the Western style dresses of
the newly converted Goan Catholics to show that Goans are what they are today,
because of the many peoples and cultures that have touched this land. It was in
Goa that the first ever Indo-Western garments evolved. Despite their obvious
identity with Hinduism, Goans know how their clothing heritage has been coloured
by diverse cultural influences. “Goan costume: a product of cultural and
historical evolution, contributes to the themes of international design sweeping
the modern world, where ethnicity is incorporated within the parameters of
international wearability. Goans wear their clothing heritage with happiness,
pride and consciousness of all that has passed before, and what will come in the
future for Goan costume, dress, synthesis and style,” says the author.
An intensely-researched work drawing, among others, on the never-before-used
archival sources, Wendell Rodricks’ book unveils a rich tapestry of the history
and clothing – together with a surfeit of visuals, including rare illustrations
of European travellers and exquisite photographs by Mark Sequeira: one of
India’s finest fashion photographers.
Wendell Rodricks: known as India’s Guru of Minimalism, has written for many
periodicals and books. He has also lectured on World Costume History, interned
at museums in Lisbon and New York.
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