Popular Dutch textile printing company Vlisco was recently announced as the lead sponsor for ‘Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens,’ an ongoing North American exhibition of the iconic Malian photographer.  Since its inception decades ago, Vlisco has created a rich legacy in African fashion with its iconic printed fabrics, some of which have been featured in Keïta’s famous Bamako studio portraits over the years. 

Vlisco’s sponsorship of this landmark exhibition, which opened on October 10 at the Brooklyn Museum, further establishes its indubitable legacy while also reaffirming its commitment to keeping heritage alive and celebrating its impact on global creativity. 

“For over a century, Africa has inspired Vlisco’s creativity, and that bond continues to guide us today,” Perry Oosting, CEO of Vlisco Groups, shared in a statement. “Sharing a legacy with Seydou Keïta reminds us of the transformative power of African artistry to shape global culture. Working alongside Catherine McKinley, Trevor Stuurman, and Sarah Diouf reaffirms our commitment to honouring the voices and vision that define our story.”

The exhibition features some of Keïta’s small vintage prints alongside the larger modern versions. It also features never-before-seen film negatives as well as a selection of garments, jewellery, and textiles similar to those that were often featured in his images. The show runs from October 10, 2025, to March 6, 2026.