Part of Field Lines, presented with the Guardian

Indigo is an ancient colour, a natural dye extracted from a plant, and the only known true blue dye in nature.

Artist Gianna Christella Hayes invites participants to take part in an Indigo Dye Ritual. Using an indigo vat, participants can bring a textile item to be dyed and ritualised by indigo whilst learning the alchemical process and engaging with the rich cultural histories connected to indigo across West African, Black American, and global textile traditions.

This workshop becomes a shared space of experimentation and collective making. Participants leave with unique hand-dyed textile piece and a deeper understanding of indigo as both a material practice and a carrier of cultural memory and spiritual knowledge.

Extra info: Please ensure your item is made from natural fibres (cotton, linen, hemp, silk, or wool). Items should be pre-washed, and free of synthetic blends, as indigo does not bind well to synthetics. Small to medium pieces work best for the vat, allowing everyone to experiment fully. We have blanks available ( for an additional fee ) for those who do not bring an item.

Bring with you:

1 personal textile item to dye (scarf, t-shirt, hat, fabric, pillowcase, tote bag, etc.)
Made from natural fibres only: cotton, linen, hemp, silk, wool etc.
No synthetics (polyester, nylon, or blends won’t take the dye well)
Item must be pre-washed, with no fabric softener or finishes
Small to medium-sized textile items for the dye vat
Suggested BYO textile items include:

Garment: Top, Tank, Slip dress, etc.
Accessory: Tote Bag, Socks, Hat, etc.
Homewares: Pillowcase, Altar Cloth, Tea Towel, Piece of fabric (50 cm² max)