Blog

Off the Canvas

A couple weeks ago, New York played host to the Armory Show, a massive, multi venue parade of the latest contemporary art from an international array of galleries. Various mediums by the art star elite and those of the lesser-known breed were on display for a decadent eye feast. While often times, the lines between art and fashion are boldly marked, there were a number of pieces that provided inspiration in the development of textiles. It will be a welcome trickle down (or up!) effect, depending on your viewpoint.

Blurry Romance
The painterly hues of JMW Turner have long been present in a number of designers collections. Hiroyuki Masuyama worked with over 300 composite photographs to create a composite image of ‘The Burning of the House of Parliament’. It has a beautifully faded hologram look to it and is reminiscent of the digital leanings of printed fabrics this season.

Textural Tendencies
The artist behind ‘The Walthamstow Tapestry’, Grayson Perry sought inspiration in early 20th century Sumatran batik fabrics. It boldly illustrates scenes from the human experience, from birth, childhood, adulthood, through death. This extremely labor intensive work could influence a return to handiwork and crafts and encourages an essence of story telling. Sabine Boehl creates a beaded relief portrait of ancient Greek goddesses while some others use hanging fibers and stitches in their compositions.

Pattern Pieces
Prints and paintings by Simon Dybbroe Molle and Mateo Tannatt could easily translated to fabric. Including patterns with shapes, geometric and abstract and collages.

By Anush Mirbegian