Japanese textiles expert Elizabeth Wilson to speak Feb. 20 at UNL

            Elizabeth Wilson, an expert on Japanese textiles and a successful business woman, will speak at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln on Feb. 20.

            Wilson will share the history and workings of her unique business, Asiatica, in Westwood, Kan., in "Asiatica Redefined: A Dialogue with Elizabeth Wilson" at 5 p.m. in Room 11 of the Home Economics Building on 35th Street north of East Campus Loop. Her presentation is a feature event linked to the exhibition, "Japan and Fashion: Influence and Impact," opening Feb. 24 in the Robert Hillestad Textiles Gallery on the second floor of the Home Economics Building. The exhibition is curated by Barbara Trout, professor of textiles, merchandising and fashion design at UNL. The lecture and exhibit are free and open to the public.

            A longstanding interest in Japanese textiles and dress inspired Wilson to create a unique concept store, recognized for its fine Asian-inspired products. Asiatica's showroom offers elegant house-brand ready-to-wear Japanese accessories and textiles, antiques and unique items for the home. Behind the showroom/boutique is a design studio where Wilson and her staff create beautiful, highly marketable garments. Asiatica's artisans practice adaptive re-use of vintage textiles using Japanese fabrics and kimono cloth that are stitched into coats, jackets, scarves, blouses and more. These garments are distinct for their fine craft and for the Asian influence that characterizes their silhouettes and finish.

            Wilson will also visit classes to speak with UNL students about her adaptive design approach and her marketing strategies. Wilson's visit is underwritten by the UNL Faculty Senate Convocations Committee. For additional information, contact the Department of Textiles, Merchandising and Fashion Design at 402-472-2911.

            The Hillestad Gallery is part of the Department of Textiles, Merchandizing and Fashion Design in the UNL College of Education and Human Sciences. The gallery is open 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday and by appointment. Admission is free. For more information, call 402-472-6370 or visit http://textilegallery.unl.edu.