AN exhibition reflecting the geography, industry and social diversity of Sheffield through a wide range of textile art is currently on view at the Workstation.
Made in Sheffield 2008 is the work of the long-established Art Through Textiles group, whose members have made use of the various heritage and museum collections in the city as well as far more personal recollections of Sheffield and its people.
Art Through Textiles is a long-established group formed 24 years ago to promote and develop knowledge, design and good practice among textile artists and interested non- professionals in the Sheffield area. With a membership now of around 90, it is one of the largest non-affiliated textile/embroidery groups in the country.
The group has a monthly programme of workshops and lectures by either members or significant visiting artists and speakers.
Members have been exhibiting together since 1984 and last year were invited to develop an exhibition for the Knitting and Stitching Shows at Birmingham NEC and Harrogate. Now they have brought it home.
"We entitled our exhibition Made in Sheffield as most of our membership reside or work in the city itself and this is the environment from which they draw their inspiration," says Art Through Textiles' Linda Bellinger.
"We felt this title was fluid enough to embrace distinct working practices of members yet also reflect the roots and aspirations of the group."
The show reflects a wide range of textile art, based upon personal interests and aspects of the city; architectural, historical, industrial, social and geographical.
Made in Sheffield is a registered trademark, belonging to the City of Sheffield, and the group have been given permission to use the mark for the duration of these exhibitions.
It was recognised that the exhibition would spread the word, not only of the high standard of work produced by Art Through Textiles but Sheffield's reputation as a stimulating and inspirational area.
The group received Lottery money to help fund the exhibitions and also to develop an extensive educational programme.
Art Through Textiles can be seen on weekdays at the Workstation on Paternoster Row until October 3. There will be a Meet the Artists day on Saturday, September 27.
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