Ever since we spotted the work of Malian textile designer and calligrapher Aboubakar Fofana, at ICFF a while back we’ve been devout fans of his ethereal textiles.

Fofana, who spent more than 20 years studying and developing dying techniques in Japan and France, operates a workshop in Mali, where he produces a collection of bed covers and fabrics reflecting a mix of ethnic influences. His passion for indigo plants and natural dyes has led to a revival of the use of the indigo plant in West Africa. For purchasing information, visit the design collective Design Africa or the Aboubakar Fofana website; Fofana has also shown his work at ABC Carpet & Home in New York.

Above: Fofana’s hands reveal his life’s work: the production of indigo fabrics.

N.B.: This post is an update; the original story ran on May 21, 2009.