Pushing boundaries

Celebrating the emotional resonance and boundless possibilities of soft materials, this exhibition explores their transformative role in global design, showcasing their versatility and impact across disciplines.

Textile Design Now features 23 compelling works from women textile artists and designers hailing from fourteen different countries, including Austria, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Kazakhstan, Mexico, the Netherlands, Norway, Senegal, Singapore, Sweden, Taiwan, and the United States. This exhibition offers a unique opportunity to discover previously unseen pieces, showcasing the innovative spirit of women in textile design.

The featured artists are pushing the boundaries of textile practices through a variety of mediums and techniques, including weaving, 3D printing, sound-generating textiles, solar textiles, bacterial dyeing, and even the creation of replacement organs woven by silkworms. The exhibition’s spatial arrangement reflects the intricate relationship between tradition and innovation, emphasizing the emotional resonance of soft materials.

“The exhibition will be an opportunity to discover the remarkable work of women designers over the past century, especially the exceptional contributions of today’s women in textile production,” says Louise Pelletier.

Fabienne Münch adds, “Soft materials are part of everyday life in cultures and societies across the globe. They are an inexhaustible source of inspiration and innovation. We are delighted to present this exhibition, celebrating women artists and designers who are passionate about materials.”

Katharina Sand emphasizes the importance of textile practices, stating, “They embody craftsmanship and ingenuity. Their socio-cultural, economic, and political impact is profound, while their aesthetics and tactility shape our everyday experience of the world.”

The exhibition not only highlights the talents of individual artists but also serves as a platform for dialogue about the future of textile design. It invites visitors to reflect on how these innovative practices can address contemporary issues such as sustainability and cultural identity. By showcasing the diverse backgrounds and perspectives of the artists, Textile Design Now aims to inspire a new generation of designers to explore the potential of textiles as a medium for expression and change.

Featured Artists

Among the talented artists featured in the exhibition are A+N Studio (Alissa van Asseldonk & Nienke Bongers), Yosi Anaya, Micheline Beauchemin, Estelle Bourdet, Felecia Davis, Aïssa Dione, Cécile Feilchenfeldt, Carla Hemlock, and many more. Each artist brings a unique voice and perspective to the exhibition, reflecting the rich tapestry of experiences that shape the world of textile design today.