UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Did you know that safflower petals, coal tar, hydrangea branches and even mud have been used to add color to clothing? Learn more about these everyday items and the historical processes used to bring color to the world by attending “Dyestuff: Historical Materials of Color,” a hands-on lecture hosted by Penn State’s Pasto Agricultural Museum.
From 6 to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 6, the public is invited to examine samples of fibers, cloth, dyebaths and the resultant colors. The lecture will cover modern interpretations of historical dye recipes and techniques from around the globe.
Leading the lecture will be Sarah Rich, associate professor of art history and co-curator of the exhibition, “Sad Purple and Mauve: A History of Dye-Making,” on view through Jan. 15, 2024, in the Eberly Family Special Collections Library, 104 Paterno Library, on the University Park campus.
Rich will highlight ingredients and dye recipes from the 18th and 19th centuries. She also will discuss her work to understand color and its materiality and representation. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage with the materials.
This event is free. For more information, call 814-863-1383, email pastoagmuseum@psu.edu or visit agsci.psu.edu/pasto.
Administered by the College of Agricultural Sciences, the Pasto Agricultural Museum is located at Gate K of the Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center at Rock Springs, 9 miles southwest of State College on state Route 45. The address is 2710 W. Pine Grove Road.