This ambitious exhibition introduces materials and methods that have produced cloth, but also the ropes, reins, bands and gut-strings that gave us ships, ploughs and carts, the ability to transfer electricity and make music.

Through the juxtaposing of stunning garments, dress and textiles originating from around the world, the exhibition aims to connect with everyone, proving the existence of a universal, shared narrative. Exhibition pieces express global identities as well as our cultural regard for animals. There are depictions of complex ideas, illustrations of the origins of computing in weaving, and the antiquity of the principle of ‘waste not want not’.

Also on display is work by UK based artist Lynn Setterington. Through textiles Lynn explores contemporary issues in society and how stitch can be used to commemorate people and communities.