Specialism: Woven Textiles
In the midst of accelerated living, Fiona Walker’s woven textiles for interiors address the importance of making subtle yet significant changes to everyday life. Inspired by the food we share and the textiles we adorn our table with, Fiona’s studio practice communicates the sensual pleasures of the dining experience for both Slow Food and Slow Textile practitioners. By designing upmarket table linen she aims to reflect the cultural trend which goes well beyond food and food systems but has influenced ideas of slow design, consumption and production.

Urban food networks are making communities more sustainable by helping feed and sustain local populations. Fiona’s engineered table linen reflects the cultural trend of communal dining and encourages family and friends to gather around the dining table. Colour plays a vital and dominating role in the creation of her textiles. Inspired by a work and travel experience in Thailand, the sophisticated palette of cool and warm colours reflect Northern mountain skylines and Southern seascapes.

In addition to her woven textiles, Fiona has designed a unique collection of hand glazed ceramic bowls which compliment the dip dyed aesthetic of her table linen.

Fiona recognizes her responsibility as a designer to create textiles with a conscience. By using materials which are less dependent on resource use and designing for a sense of longevity she strives to apply instrumental ideas of slow design to her practice. The significant personal and professional journey of working as a textile designer at Doi Tung Cottage Industries has informed a progressive interest in designing for sustainability. By developing greater sensitivity to place and scale, the industry encourages responsible and regenerative loops which directly impact the people and have improved the lives of vulnerable communities. Fiona’s experience of working at Doi Tung weaving factory has confirmed the significant role design plays in facilitating social and environmental change.