Textiles have had a big impact on the art world, pushing boundaries and challenging society’s norms. From the controversial Wall Hangings show at MoMA in 1969 to recent exhibitions that explore the diverse tapestry of textiles, fabric-based artwork has become an essential means of expression and social commentary.
Renowned artist Louise Bourgeois criticized the Wall Hangings show, believing it fell somewhere between fine and applied art. Bourgeois wanted a deeper exploration of textiles’ three-dimensionality, emphasizing their unique potential to go beyond traditional artistic boundaries.
A recent exhibition at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Woven Histories: Textiles and Modern Abstraction, explored the intricate relationship between textiles and abstract art. This showcase demonstrated that textiles possess a metaphorical language of entanglement, interweaving, and threads, making them particularly suited to navigate complex socio-political moments.
The art of weaving is experiencing a noticeable resurgence in the current art scene, captivating audiences worldwide with a renewed spirit. Artists like Sheila Hicks and Magdalena Abakanowicz have taken center stage, bringing their innovative approaches to textiles into the spotlight. Hicks, known for her expertise in fiber and color, had her first retrospective in the UK at the Hepworth Wakefield in 2022. Meanwhile, Abakanowicz’s exhibition at Tate Modern marked her long-awaited return after an absence of nearly half a century.
One of the most intriguing aspects of textiles is their ability to comment on legacies of exploitation and extraction. Artists like Igshaan Adams delve into the memories and topographies of marginalized communities. Adams’ solo exhibition at the ICA Boston explores the segregated township of Bonteheuwel in South Africa, shedding light on the complex socio-political fabric of the region.
Get ready to be captivated as Unravel, a groundbreaking exhibition curated by a team of visionary minds, takes the art world by storm. This extraordinary showcase will be held at the Barbican Art Gallery in London, offering visitors a deep dive into the power and politics of textiles. At the same time, the Hayward Gallery will present Material World: Contemporary Artists and Textiles, a touring show that will visit various venues across the UK from October onwards, further emphasizing the significance of textiles in contemporary art.
Throughout history, textiles have been associated with norms of gender, sexuality, and identity. However, artists are subverting and reimagining these norms, pushing the boundaries of societal expectations. Through their work, they challenge us to question and redefine our understanding of the world.
As we witness the growing interest in textiles as a form of artistic expression, it becomes clear that these fabric-based creations serve as powerful tools for storytelling. Drawing inspiration from community, indigenous, and pre-colonial practices, textile artists breathe life into their works, fostering a sense of cultural heritage and connection.
Looking ahead, the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam will host the exhibition Unravel, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore the intricate relationship between textiles and contemporary art. Through these exhibitions, the world is starting to unravel the multidimensional nature of textiles, shedding light on their historical significance and their potential to shape our present and future.
In a world where artistic boundaries are constantly challenged, textiles have emerged as a dynamic force capable of provoking thought, igniting conversations, and reflecting the complexities of our society. As we delve into the world of textile art, we embark on a journey that unveils the power and politics interwoven within these fabric-based creations, forever changing the way we perceive and appreciate art.
