We have two related themes for 2023: "A Sense of Place" and "Identity".

Sense of place is important to everyone whether it is a location, the beings around us, an emotion, time, memory or all of the above.  We will explore what it means to live in the world, take notice of our surroundings and find our place.  From inspirational starting points our members will take individual creative journeys developing process and technique to respond to our theme.

Identity is complex, it has different meanings in different contexts.  On the one hand it can refer to a unique set of characteristics that can be used to identify an individual as themself and no one else.  On another it can refer to groups where common appearance, characteristics, role-behaviour (and more) create an identity that defines the group.  Continuity (what remains the same) and Contrast (difference in comparison to others) are important features in defining Identity.

In 2023 the theme for Southwell Workhouse and Infirmary is Identity.  Midlands Textile Forum has used this as our starting point to explore the interiors and exteriors of the workhouse - its history, human stories and legacy.  Each participating artist will develop their work through research and visits to the site and will be available at certain times through the exhibition to talk about their work.

 

Midlands Textile Forum has been in existence since 2007.  We are not a static group, but take on new members after an application and interview process.  Between us we have a wide variety of backgrounds; some have worked professionally in the creative arts for many years, some have followed other careers but with an interest and passion for all things textile, whilst others may have started their textile journey later in life.

 

The diversity of the textile mediums we employ can include traditional techniques used in a contemporary way, from stitching and quilting, through to lace, knotting, weave, print, painting on cloth, digital manipulation etc.  We see this as the strength of MTF along with our commitment to sharing our love of textile art through exhibiting.

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