In June 2024, I traveled to The Gambia to meet Musa, a master artisan dedicated to the art of indigo and kola nut dyeing. Renowned for his expertise, Musa has spent his life preserving and perfecting this centuries-old tradition. From our first meeting, he was generous with his knowledge, eager to share both the historical significance and the intricate techniques behind the craft.

Over the course of three days, I immersed myself in his world—listening to stories passed down through generations and observing each meticulous step of the dyeing process. I gained insight into the deep cultural importance of indigo, once revered as a sacred color, and discovered how kola nut, beyond its role in rituals and hospitality, contributes to natural dyeing. Musa patiently demonstrated the preparation of the dyes, from fermenting indigo leaves to grinding and boiling kola nuts to extract their rich, earthy hues.

Each stage of the process demanded precision and patience—soaking the fabric, binding it in intricate resist patterns, immersing it in the dye baths, and waiting as the colors deepened and transformed. As he worked, Musa spoke of the elders who had taught him, the bustling markets where these textiles were once treasured, and his vision of safeguarding this tradition for future generations.

By the end of my time with Musa, I had gained far more than technical knowledge. I had witnessed the passion, resilience, and cultural legacy woven into this ancient craft. Inspired by his dedication, I left with a renewed commitment to honoring and revitalizing these traditions in my own work.