MUD CLOTH

Bateman uses a form of fermented mineral mud dye to create deep colors approaching black with irregular patterns and natural deterioration; threadbare with holes and wrinkle patterns. The technique combines naturally occurring plant tannins, mineral-rich mud and microorganisms to dye cloth. Working with mud directly in natural waterways over extended periods of time allows natural occurring organic matter to feed the mud’s microorganisms and convert iron present in the mud into ferrous sulfate which dyes and deteriorates the cloth. Patching, waxing, stitching and assembling these pieces further are meditative processes for Bateman, healing gestures that respond to the marks, wrinkles and deterioration made by the waterway and mud.