My current practice and its theoretical framework are concerned with preservation of the crafts amongst the current global obsession with speed and fast fashion. My research surrounds the notion of ‘Slow Design’ along with other emerging sustainable design strategies. I use the traditional textile crafts of batik and shibori as ways adhere to the Slow Design philosophies, emphasizing slowness in the creation and consumption of products to instill quality and foster tradition.

Slow Design is encouraging traditional crafts as a valuable, sustainable alternative to fast consumerism. I aim to challenge people’s perceptions of shibori and batik and reinvent their use in a contemporary way. I am developing an ongoing project in this area of textiles with an approach to fabrics for use in interior settings.

It became evident throughout the process of my research that people have little or no knowledge of sustainable design strategies or how damaging textile production and consumption can be. I believe there is a pressing need to communicate these theories better through colleges, exhibitions and events. I am passionate about ethical issues within textiles and hope to enter into teaching and lecturing as well as being involved in community projects and freelancing upon graduating.

Kirstie Williams Textile Design
07818464285
williams_kirstie@hotmail.com
www.kirstiewilliams.com