By Jennifer Rodrigo
Jenny Balfour-Paul, writer, artist, international lecturer and intrepid traveller, is the author of two books on Indigo, numerous other writings, and the highly acclaimed Deeper than Indigo: tracing Thomas Machell (Medina Publications 2015). She was consultant curator for the Whitworth Art Gallery's 2007 touring exhibition 'Indigo, a Blue to Dye For' and consultant for two documentary films. Jenny, an Hon. Research Fellow at the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies, Exeter University and Trustee of the Royal Geographical Society, is involved in research into dyes recovered from shipwrecks and in education and revivals of natural dyes worldwide. She is also a Fellow of the Royal Asiatic Society and Explorers Club and President of the Association of Guilds of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Traveller, writer and textile artist.
You’re a writer, artist, lecturer and traveller – how do you manage juggling all of your passions?
Sometimes with difficulty, which includes too many late nights trying to keep up! But on the other hand my interests in colour, textiles, travel, history and art often overlap and enhance each other. This gives me energy.
Tell me about ‘Deeper than Indigo’. What was the inspiration behind this?
My indigo career led me to the discovery in the British Library of the extraordinary illustrated journals of Thomas Machell, a 19th century explorer and indigo planter, who hoped someone would find them in the 20th century. When I read them I was instantly drawn to Machell, in whose footsteps I had been much of my life without knowing it. I wanted to bring to life a remarkable man full of passion and empathy, unlike the stereotype of those living in India and elsewhere at the height of the Raj. He was eye-witness to major events of history as well as having unusual adventures such as travelling with Muslim merchants on Arabian dhows and having an affair with a cannibal chief's daughter on a South Sea Island.
If you had to pick another career/path in life, what would it be and why?
Either a musician or a botanist. Music seems to be the height of the arts – elusive, moving and life-enhancing. As for botany, I find the natural world fascinating and wish I knew much more about the marvels of plants.
What are you most passionate about in life?
Connection between cultures and people,the arts, a wish to highlight the craziness of religious division, and kindness to animals and nature. And of course my family and friends. Love is what matters most.
The biggest challenge you’ve faced being a writer?
Being self-disciplined – and especially finding time to focus, with today's distractions of social media and the pressure to promote one's work (much as I enjoy meeting people and travelling).
Expectations for GLF?
Festivals in Asia tend to be more colourful and varied than those in the West. Galle seems to be the prefect sized festival – large enough to attract eminent writers, but not overwhelmingly big. I can't wait to meet the other writers, a marvellous mix from East and West. The audience response is always enjoyable and there will be many other arts events, including indigo workshops that I shall be involved in.
Expectations for Sri Lanka?
I was there as a teenager and found it beautiful and full of interest so I can't wait to see it again. I know I shall be impressed to see how its friendly people have recovered from the 2004 tsunami.
Jenny Balfour-Paul is one of the many writers who’ll be attending the Fairway Galle Literary Festival 2016 in January.
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