Biography

Manina Baumann have been passionately involved in collecting Silk Suzanis, and spreading Suzani appreciation since May 2012 in Cape Town. To work with heavenly silk textiles has been my dream ever since I studied Textile Design and History at the University of Stellenbosch during the 70’s. The Ancient Silk Road history has captivated me eversince.

Silk has also held a special magic for her since childhood. Watching silk worms eating mulberry leaves and then spinning their golden silky threads,

The wonder of colour and pattern observed in nature played a major role in her life. Studying Suzanis combine these loves in a unique way.

Suzani is a perfect platform to study the story of motifs, patterns and symbols over the centuries and to trace their ever-changing messages.