Hand Made
Alison Welsh
Manchester Metropolitan University
17 – 26 November 2014
Bunka Gakuen University, Tokyo presents Hand Made, an exhibition by
British fashion designer and textile artist Alison Welsh, Head of the
Department of Apparel and Associate Dean for Research at Manchester
Metropolitan University. The exhibition showcases a series of unique, hand made
womenswear garments that have been developed in conjunction with rural artisans
in the Indian state of Gujarat, and the technical team of the Department of
Apparel at Manchester Metropolitan University.
The collection highlights the previously overlooked design potential of
Kala Cotton, an organic and indigenous species grown in Kachchh, in northern India. Unlike most
Indian cottons grown today, which are genetically modified and often
hybridized, Kala Cotton is genetically pure and extremely resilient. Welsh’s
garments celebrate the virtues and natural softness of the material, fusing
British and Indian heritage cutting techniques with a more minimal western
fashion fit and sensibility. Her silhouettes are loose and flattering, making
the most of the distinctive patterning of the woven cotton.
The innovative designs are inspired by traditional Indian detailing and
pattern cutting methods, which Welsh has skilfully translated into contemporary
womenswear. Welsh worked closely with Bhujodi master weaver Shamji Vishram Vankar, to develop a range of organically dyed
fabric designs exclusively for the project. The garments exhibit traditional
hand embroidery and embellishment, carried out by the women of the Rabari
community in Bhujodi.
Hand Made has been realised in conjunction with Indian crafts support
agency Khamir. Working with the organisation and local growers, weavers,
tailors and embroiderers, Welsh has created beautiful garments from fabrics
made of this exceptional variety of cotton. The project hopes to deliver
positive social and economic impact to the rural artisans of Kachcch, through
the creation of new and sustainable products, and the promotion of Kala Cotton
to the international design community.
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