The Carpet & Textile Forum will return in spring 2026 with three days of in-depth presentations, object-based study, and open discussion dedicated to carpets and textiles. The event is scheduled for 28–30 April 2026 at the Santa Ynez Valley Marriott in Buellton, California.
Well known for its informal, hands-on approach, the Forum structures its sessions around direct examination of the textiles being discussed, complemented by PowerPoint analysis. The gathering consistently attracts collectors, researchers, dealers, and serious enthusiasts from across the U.S. and abroad.
2026 Program and Speakers
The upcoming edition will feature six sessions, each led by a respected specialist:
- Deniz Coşkun – Offset Knotting in Anatolia: Tracing a Legacy Through and Beyond the Şarkışla Group
- David Paly – From the Sublime to the Ridiculous – Yuzen / Tsutsugaki: Japanese Free-Hand Painted Resist-Dye Cloth, 1740–1900
- Stefano Ionescu – Classical Ottoman Rugs: Landmarks and Controversial Issues
- Hratch Kozibeyokian – The Language of Patterns and Inscriptions on Armenian Carpets
- Fred Mushkat – Rare and Unusual Qashqa’i Weavings with Insights into Structure and Function
- John Batki – The Tulip Panel Group of Central Anatolian Prayer Kilims
Together, these talks cover Anatolia, the Ottoman world, Armenia, Iran, Japan, and tribal weaving traditions, underscoring the Forum’s commitment to rigorous, object-driven textile scholarship.
Dealers Show and Social Events
As in past years, the Dealers Show will open with a reception on the first evening. The event will conclude with the Forum’s signature Santa Maria–style barbecue, a much-loved tradition that highlights the friendly and collegial nature of the gathering. These informal events encourage discussion and exchange among presenters, dealers, and attendees.
Registration and Contact
Brian Morehouse, Organizer – morehousebri@aol.com
Bethany Mendenhall, Coordinator – bmendenhall@cox.net
The 2026 Carpet & Textile Forum is supported by Grogan & Company, HALI Magazine, Material Culture, and Nazmiyal Auctions.
