Strands

Be inspired by this exhibition of contemporary and historical artworks showing representations of fabric in painting, drawing and printmaking. There's a wonderful variety of images to explore, demonstrating how artists have represented fabric beyond decorative terms and used it to refer to larger topics and ideas. A significant number of works give insight into fabric production, trade and craft, as a predominantly female activity, linked to the home, care and protection. 'Fabric Workers (Makers of Air Ships)' by William Russell Flint, describes the reality of military production, showing women sewing together huge sections of fabric, which is so expansive, they fold into and wrap around their task. Look out for 'The Little Seamstress' by Ian Hamilton Finlay in collaboration with Richard Demarco, a lovely sreenprint on paper, showing a boat stitching its passage through a pale blue sea. The boat, clouds and horizon all link together, creating a metaphor for sailing as a crafted activity. Alison Watt has two works in the show, both of which look closely at sections of fabric but subtly address other themes. In 'Untitled (Scarlet)' a small gap in the red fabric associates itself with blood, flesh and the ability of fabric to disguise, seduce and conceal. There's lots to consider here, particularly concerning the imaginative potential of fabric and the importance of craft in general, which is interesting to consider in relation to the mainstream art of our times. [Lucy Gallwey]