Exciting things happen when cultures collide. 

As part of the University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia study program, a young group of contemporary Australian designers worked with various artisans in Gujarat and Bengal to come up with innovative ideas in textile design to be displayed at the gallery.

The young Australian designers engaged extensively with the artisan communities in India, studying and researching the rich traditions of the area. And, together with the local craftspeople, they created never-before-seen works that lie at the intersection of both cultures, while simultaneously reflecting the contemporary moment.

The works exhibited capture an Indian spirit transformed by Australian eyes, and represent an equal meeting of worlds. Textiles made in partnership with the artisans are design prototypes for future production for versatile functions, as well as works of art in their own right. 

About Liz Williamson

Liz Williamson is an internationally respected textile artist and her work has been exhibited both nationally and internationally. Her research reflects a long-standing interest in the history, use and construction of cloth itself, particularly with respect to the repairing of cloth and the process of darning. She has designed for industry, produced unique works for major exhibitions, and maintained ongoing studio production, specializing in hand-woven scarves and wraps, since establishing her own studio in 1985.

Cultural Textiles Course

The three-week program focuses on artisan-produced textiles allowing students to develop an understanding of the cultural, social and environmental issues impacting production. The course focuses on the how, where, what and the nature of production by artisan, family, village and community groups. Of particular interest are how these groups maintain textile traditions, how organizations work to maintain these traditions, and how textile traditions impact contemporary design.