WACH Invites Public to ‘A Passion for Textiles – Stories From the Cloth’

The Women’s Art Center of the Hamptons will host a public event titled “A Passion for Textiles – Stories From the Cloth” on Thursday, September 4, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

The evening begins with a reception at 5:30 p.m., followed by the talk at 6 p.m. Guests will have the opportunity to meet the speakers afterward.

This special conversation will shine a light on the artistry, craftsmanship and cultural richness behind the textiles we wear, admire and often take for granted. Drawing connections from Bridgerton’s ballrooms to Bridgehampton’s galleries, the event will feature three remarkable women working in the world of cloth:

Nicky Sandford, a costume designer and senior costume buyer whose credits include “Bridgerton,” “Cinderella,” “Moonhaven” and “Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story.” Her deep knowledge of materials, historical accuracy and eye for the unexpected led to a serendipitous meeting with Siba at a London antique market while both were searching for vintage African fabrics.

Usibakaiye (Siba) Agbeyegbe, a British- and Nigerian-trained health care lawyer turned textile artist based in Nevis. Drawing from Yoruba Aso-Oke, Ghanaian Kente and Malian Bogolanfini, she transforms ceremonial garments into contemporary apparel, décor and sculptural forms, reimagining West African strip-weaving traditions for the modern era.

Mary Jane Marcasiano, founder of a design company established in 1977 and recipient of awards including Cartier, DuPont, Cutty Sark and Wool Knit Awards. Her career spans fashion, theater and social impact — she has designed for Grammy-winning artist and UNICEF Ambassador Angélique Kidjo, and founded the Made With Love Project to support women artisans in Brazil and Africa. Today she combines costume studies, curation and nonprofit strategy to bring a global, community-minded lens to textile arts.

Together, these women will pull back the curtain on a world where tradition meets creativity — and where every thread tells a story.

Admission is free, but reservations are encouraged. The event will take place at the Women’s Art Center of the Hamptons, located at 2418 Main Street in Bridgehampton. More information is available at wachamptonsny.org.