Spark: Fabric Changes Everything

Pull on a thread from a bolt of cloth, and you unravel a story of empires, espionage, poverty  and a fabric trade that upended social order. In this program, Amelia Peck describes a moment in the 17th century when bed linens were the most valuable thing one owned; Paul van Zyl tells of his journey from human-rights activist to creator of luxury fashion brand Maiyet; and designer Eileen Fisher talks about her company’s focus on sustainability and human rights, as well as beautiful clothes. Spark is hosted by Julie Burstein.

Amelia Peck, Marica F. Vilcek Curator of American Decorative Arts, MMA

Paul van Zyl, creator of Maiyet

Eileen Fisher, clothing designer

Julie Burstein, author and Peabody Award-winning creator of public radio's Studio 360

Tickets to this event include museum admission.

This program is in conjunction with the exhibition Interwoven Globe: The Worldwide Textile Trade, 1500-1800, which will be on view from Sept. 16, 2013 to Jan. 5, 2014.

About Spark: A Series of Talks

Spark: A Series of Talks explores vital ideas and issues through the lens of the Met’s collection. Each cabaret-style program gathers artists, thought leaders, and performers from theater, film, politics, literature, science, and pop culture to engage in wide-ranging, fresh conversations and performances. Spark is hosted by Julie Burstein, author and Peabody Award–winning creator of public radio’s Studio 360.