Textile Intersections 2023 Exhibition : Entanglements South-North

Entanglements South-North (2022–2023) exhibits the artistic and research collaborations of a group of four artist-researchers who engaged in digital bioart, co-creation, and shared authorship using arts-based research (ABR) approach (Barone Chilton Leavy, 2015). The study aims to offer different perspectives and approaches to understanding conflicts that may occur during the process of connection and creation. Using various natural materials with a personal artistic approach, the artist-researchers translated their visions into colours, images and patterns, which were digitally printed onto eight large textiles (each 140cm x 700cm) that served as a basis for innovative collaborations and creative partnerships. Through these personalised, collaborative textiles, the artist-researchers anticipated fostering an environment of open communication, collaboration, experimentation and new discoveries, bridging the gap between art and science. The arts provide a platform that enables people to forge significant connections, fostering relationships across communities and among individuals and taking on various forms, all of which promote unity and association (Chilton & Leavy, 2014). The work explored the connections between people, natural environments, creativity and identity expression. Consequently, the eight textiles entangled in a dialogue that represented the role of the arts in social change, especially when margins are continually shifting to create new possibilities.