Grayson Perry’s Tapestries: A Bold Fusion of Tradition and Contemporary Visual Storytelling Grayson Perry, one of the most prominent contemporary British artists, has continuously pushed the boundaries of art with his explorations into ceramics, sculpture, and performance. Yet, it is his tapestries that often stand out as his most powerful works. These vibrant, narrative-driven creations…
Image Credit: Mae Mu via Unsplash Natural dyeing projects often require a pre-treatment to ensure the dye bonds well with the fabric. While protein fibres (like wool and silk) naturally bond with dye molecules, cellulose fibres (such as cotton, linen, and other plant-based fabrics) are less receptive. This is where soya milk comes into play…
As I follow the threads of my family history, one story continues to resonate — that of my grandfather on my mum’s side, who worked as a handloom weaver in the days before the Industrial Revolution transformed Britain’s textile industry. Long before the roar of factory machinery and the rise of industrial mills, weaving was…
As part of my ongoing exploration into sustainable and therapeutic design, with a rise in awareness around environmental issues, health and well-being, the use of sustainable therapeutic textiles has come to the forefront of innovative textiles. Therapeutic textiles, also known as “smart textiles” or “functional fabrics,” are designed to provide health benefits, for example soothing…
I’ve long been fascinated by synaesthesia—that beautiful neurological phenomenon where one sense triggers another. In simple terms, it’s when one sensory experience activates a second, unrelated one. Some people see colours when they hear music, or taste flavours when they read words. It’s poetic, layered, and deeply personal. Lately, I’ve been dreaming about how this…
The Ashton Family owned various mills including the Ashton Brothers mill where my grandparents worked. The story of the Ashton family is one of innovation, perseverance, and transformation, and is deeply intertwined with the industrial heritage of Gee Cross and Flowery Field. It began with Benjamin Ashton, who was born in 1718, by 1745, his…
(Originally written as part of my Synthesis Project for: MA Textiles Manchester school of art) Honouring My Mother’s Legacy: Exploring Our Family’s Connection to the Textile Industry of the Industrial Revolution The threads of our past often weave through the fabric of our lives in unexpected ways, connecting us to stories and histories that shape…
Original article by Mark Cartwrightpublished on 01 March 2023 Textile Industry Textile production was once a cottage industry but during the Industrial Revolution (1760-1840) it was transformed to a mechanised system. The workers were only needed to make sure the carding spinning, and weaving machines didn’t stop. There were many inventors who wanted to ensure that…
Incorporating therapeutic textiles into my practice offers a way to blend traditional knowledge, wellness, and sustainability into everyday fabrics. These textiles are designed to look beautiful and they also support well-being by using materials, dyes, and finishes. These elements give subtle health benefits and the concept of therapeutic textiles draws from ancient practices. In the…
Updated: 25/07/2025 Original Article Dated: SEPTEMBER 10, 2020 About the author An article that brings the past into the future. As we delve into history, layers of the past begin to unfold—but not all the consequences of our industrial evolution are immediately visible to the modern eye. Curiosity should always guide how we explore and…