10/13/2026
Debra Smith’s body of work for Continuum includes numerous studies in indigo, a color deeply connected to the history and material traditions of textile making.
“Indigo ikat textiles are at the heart of this body of work. During a month-long trip to Japan in 2010, I had the privilege of witnessing many stages of their creation, from indigo cultivation and dyeing to weaving and garment construction. These textiles embody the knowledge, skill, and labor of many hands.
I continue to be captivated by indigo’s remarkable range, from the palest atmospheric blues to deep, saturated navy tones so dark they are often mistaken for black.
When I work with vintage cloth, I become part of that continuing story. I piece together fragments of textiles to create compositions that explore structure, movement, and balance. Much of the labor involved remains unseen, but it is an important part of the work for me—a way of honoring both the material and the many makers who came before while adding my own hand to the conversation.”
—Debra Smith
Continuum: Debra Smith | Sam Chung is on view through November 7.
Images: 1) Debra Smith, Wayfinding Indigo, Series No. 1, 2026, Pieced Vintage Textiles, 60 x 28 inches
2) Debra Smith, Balancing Act in Indigo, No.2, 2026, Pieced Vintage Textiles, 26 1/4 x 22 1/4 inches
3) (Detail) Balancing Act in Indigo, No.2
4) Debra Smith, Golden Repair Stones, No.1, 2026, Pieced Vintage Textiles, 26 1/4 x 22 1/4 inches
5) (Detail) Golden Repair Stones, No.1