Description:

‘Light Structures’ is a woven textile collection that explores the interaction between structure, material, surface and light. Interested in creating textiles that invite us to pause and experience the present moment, I felt there was potential to explore the interplay between the intangibility of light and the materiality of textiles.

A material-led investigation enabled the initial exploration of both practical and poetic elements of light through rigorously learning, unlearning, drawing, engaging, playing, manipulating and documenting light’s interaction with surfaces. In-depth exploration and research influenced me to specifically set up three 8 shaft-dobby looms with unique warp and yarn combinations, such as double cloths using paper yarn and merino. This resulted in textiles that shift, filter and react with light. These interactions were then photographed and translated on the digital TC2 loom. To create the files for the TC2, I had to transform the photographs by inputting multiple weave patterns, working pixel by pixel in photoshop. A highly technical process which was informed aesthetically by the interaction of light with my woven samples, and technically through the knowledge I gained during the hand-weaving process itself. The final collection developed into a mix of structure-focused weaves created by the 8-shaft dobby looms, and photographic patterned fabrics that were woven on the digital TC2 loom. I have produced a variety of sample sizes including a woven length on the TC2, measuring 2.4 metres. This enabled a range of interior textiles that could add both functional and aesthetic value, which would enhance the atmospheric qualities that light and shadow create within interior environments.

Through the dialogue between analogue and digital weaving, this collection investigates light, and presents a range of 7 woven textiles that are adaptable and responsive to their surroundings. Due to the multiple qualities within this collection, the fabrics could be used for numerous interior outputs, such as window shades, curtains, room dividers, wall hangings, light fittings and soft furnishings. As wall dividers, the double cloth designs would have the ability to be moulded into certain shapes. This would help with both adapting to different spaces, but also enable multiple angles for light to respond, block or diffuse. Although I focused on and was inspired mostly by natural light for this collection, the outcomes created could also help to control artificial light intensities to enhance functionality and moods within interior spaces, when natural light sources are limited.

‘Light structures’ are constantly changing with their environment, creating an ongoing conversation between the materials, shadows and light.