Inventors Of Tradition

 

The amalgamation of art and business in fashion is one which is historically prominent in Scottish design. Think, for example, of a gloriously knit Christopher Kane jumper and the importance of the textile industry becomes undeniable. This is the subject of a new exhibition, entitled Inventors of Tradition. Using a variety of mediums (including archive footage and clothing from private collections), designer/artist duo Lucy McKenzie and Beca Lipscombe will offer a historical presentation of the Scottish textile industry, with the aim of highlighting its wider social importance.

The industry is undergoing substantive change and re-invigoration, following a period of steady decline. Correspondingly, the duo has created a collection of clothing, furniture and accessories by collaborating with operating Scottish textile manufacturers. In this sense, ‘Inventors of Tradition’ is as much a celebration of the future as it is a reminder of the past. The timing of the exhibition also allows the meta-social commentary of the work to come to the fore. In an era of cuts and unemployment, Inventors of Tradition aims to refocus the attention on the undervalued craftsmen behind the finished products. At the same time, with the increasing popularity of Scottish design globally, it challenges us to re-evaluate what is meant by ‘Scottish’ design and even ‘Scottishness’ itself.

If not for this reason, it’s worth seeing due to McKenzie’s involvement; her name is becoming increasingly important in the art world. It’s also the first project from Creative Scotland’s Vital Spark Initiative, being overseen by Panel (an independent creative consultancy which specialises in regional talent). [Emma Segal]