Les Amis des textiles et du costume

Lamba marevaka (mantle) by the Lamba Sarl Studio, 2017-2018, Antananarivo, Madagascar, 2021.26.1. © ROM. This acquisition was generously supported by the Suzanne Labarge Fund.

À propos

Les Amis des textiles et du costume mettent en valeur la collection spectaculaire de textiles et d’articles de mode du ROM. Ces objets racontent des histoires, notamment personnelles, relient cultures et sociétés, et témoignent de pratiques et d’innovations ingénieuses. Notre objectif est de promouvoir la richesse de cette collection d’envergure mondiale pour qu’elle soit mieux comprise.

Our History

The Friends of Textiles and Costume (FTC) grew from a dedicated group of volunteers who began supporting the textile collections in 1975. What started as fundraising for acquisitions and library books evolved significantly over the decades.

In 1996, recognizing the need for proper exhibition space, our focus shifted to establishing a dedicated textile and costume gallery. Once achieved, we turned our efforts toward creating an endowment fund to sustain future exhibitions.

Formally established in 2006, the FTC Committee has enhanced public understanding and appreciation of global textile and costume collections through:

  • Curated educational programs
  • Expert-led special events
  • Exclusive collection viewings
  • Cultural storytelling through textiles

From our volunteer roots to today's vibrant community, we continue to champion these magnificent collections while preserving them for future generations.

Become part of this living legacy - your passion helps write our next chapter!

Woman's sari with scenes from the epic poem the Ramayana, design and painted by M. Kailasham, chintz, Hyderabad (Telangana), India, 2018, 2019.57.1. © ROM. This acquisition was made possible with the generous support of Patricia Sparrer.

Our Initiatives

Yo-Yo quilting workshop, ROM March Break 2024. © ROM.

Become a Member

Join our vibrant community of art and culture enthusiasts! Membership directly supports the preservation and growth of the Global Fashion & Textiles department.

As a member, you’ll enjoy:

  • Exclusive access to ROM exhibitions, including private curator-led tours.
  • Invitations to members-only events, from gallery previews to cultural celebrations.
  • Behind-the-scenes opportunities at the Global Fashion & Textiles department and storage vaults.

New members are always welcome! 

Man’s military shirt or tunic (su’a senakut), chintz, made in coastal southeast India for the Thai market, late 1700s, 983.155.1. © ROM.

Sponsor a Program

Make a lasting impact on East Asian art and culture through targeted giving:

  • Research Fellowships and Grants to support scholars studying the Global Textiles & Costume collections.
  • Acquisitions to help expand the museum’s world-class holdings.
  • Exhibition Development, including funds to support groundbreaking displays of textiles and costume.
  • Endow an Internship at ROM, investing in the next generation of textile professionals.

Use the link below to donate today. Please select Friends of Textiles and Costume under “Areas of Support”. Donations of $20.00 CAD or greater will receive a tax receipt.

Autres programmes