Textile Shows in the UK: Unraveling Histories and Weaving New Tales
Located in the picturesque Georgian spa town of Bath, the Holburne Museum is currently hosting an exhibition by artist Lubaina Himid titled “Lost Threads.” Himid’s use of brightly colored Dutch wax cotton fabric throughout the museum’s gallery spaces serves as a reminder of the grim colonial histories that underpin the elegant building and its collections. The fabric, originally used by Dutch colonial companies in West and Central Africa, carries significant cultural symbolism related to African history and identity.
Textiles are experiencing a resurgence in the art world, with major institutional shows highlighting how artists are using cloth, thread, and yarn to critique societal norms. The Barbican Art Gallery’s exhibition “Unravel: The Power and Politics of Textiles” showcases artists like Yinka Shonibare, whose work with Dutch wax cotton challenges conventional narratives. Additionally, other artists, such as Faith Ringgold and Louise Bourgeois, use textiles to explore themes of resistance and empowerment.
The Turner Contemporary Margate is hosting the exhibition “Beyond Form: Lines of Abstraction 1950-70,” which examines how women artists worldwide embraced abstraction, including through the use of textiles. Artists like Ewa Pachucka and Maria Theresa Chojnacka found creative freedom in weaving fiber sculptures, while American artists Lenore Tawney and Sheila Hicks pushed the boundaries of traditional craft techniques.
At Gasworks in London, artist Anna Perach’s exhibition “Holes” showcases the innovative use of tufted carpeting to create sculptural structures depicting human figures in a performative, ritualistic manner. Perach’s blend of folklore and feminism challenges viewers to reconsider the role of textiles in contemporary art, highlighting the subversive power of stitch and fabric.
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Naz Baydar graduated from Middle East Technical University with a degree in Product Design. She furthered her education by completing a master’s degree in Art Direction at Elisava in Barcelona. Her work blends art direction, multimedia narratives, and design to craft innovative and transformative experiences. Naz is passionate about creating visual stories that evoke strong emotions and deliver meaningful impact. In addition to her work, she has a deep interest in philosophy and literature, which continuously inspire and enrich her creative process.