Exhibition: Rewoven Horizons: the Era of Indian Textiles. Nila House, Lady Bamford Foundation.
Sat 21 to Sat 28 September, 10am to 4pm, closed Sunday 22
The Nicholson Museum and Art Gallery
Free
Rewoven Horizons: The Era of Indian Textiles is a meticulously curated exhibition that pays homage to the timeless beauty of natural, undyed fibers and the artistry of traditional Indian textiles. The display celebrates the elegance of natural shades and blends, featuring hand-woven swatches that showcase the exceptional craftsmanship of artisans. The exhibition highlights the stories of the Malikpur village community through catalogues and photo books that document the rich traditions of handloom weaving and the intricate craft of hand spinning. This exhibit not only honors the skilled craftsmanship but also underscores the cultural heritage and community that sustain these age-old practices.
A standout feature of the exhibition is an interactive art installation titled In the Weaver’s Shoe, where visitors can immerse themselves in the laborious and enduring appeal of traditional weaving techniques. With Aditi Kering, a textile designer from Nila House, participants can weave together or individually, embracing the subtle textures and natural hues of shaded and blended yarns. This piece, created by the community of Leek using materials sourced from India, will travel back to India to be showcased at Nila House in Jaipur. This installation reflects the historical craft exchange between Leek and India, offering a poignant commentary on their transactional history.
As part of the exhibition, we have two live centres that will come to life as people walk through the exhibit space. Kharad Weaving will be demonstrated by master artisan Tejshibhai Dhana Marwada from Gujarat, a fourth-generation craftsman with expertise in hand spinning, natural dyeing, and hand weaving. Additionally, Indigo: Dyeing to Talk will feature Ojasvi Peshawaria, a natural dye practitioner from Nila House, who will demonstrate the fascinating transformation of indigo from green to blue. This session will provide visitors with a comprehensive understanding of indigo’s enduring legacy, from plant to pigment, and its revival in contemporary craft.
Nila House - Lady Bamford Foundation, is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to preserving and celebrating India's rich heritage of traditional crafts. With a focus on ecologically sensitive, indigenous practices, particularly natural dyes, hand-spun, and handwoven textiles, Nila sits at the intersection of craft, design, sustainability and community empowerment, encompassing all stages of the Indian craft value chain. This exhibition is a testament to Nila, bringing to life the enduring beauty and cultural significance of Indian textiles.
A Non Profit Community Interest Company Limited by Guarantee, Company Number 14560894. 70 Derby Street, Leek, Staffordshire, UK.
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