Woven Wonders
When pouring through art books, as we quite often do here in the studio, there is never a lack of analysis on textiles and their integral position in art history. The old masters studied them over and over again, perfecting the fall of drapery around the human form. Cézanne and the Cubists looked to textiles with a seriousness that placed them as centrepieces in their still life works. The influence of the Bloomsbury Group saw pattern and textile rich interiors become a fashionable staple in the bohemian home.
When artworks pass through the studio this art historical influence is loud and clear. Our collection is adorned with textile rich works, all of which give a gentle nod to what clothing, furnishings and drapery says about society at the time they were created. Now, I think we’ve formed a pretty good argument as to why we’ve chosen to compile this lovely collection of textile themed artworks, wouldn’t you agree? Enjoy!
You might not realise at it at first glance, but the strong pattern in this drapery is what ties the whole piece together. This artist proved to have great taste in both fabrics and booze.
Mid 20th Century Oil - Still Life of Liquor Glasses and an Apple
We couldn’t miss this fine example of a Bloomsbury School still life. The patterns, the colours and the sheer skill of the artist makes magic out of the mundane.
W. H. A. - Bloomsbury School Early 20th Century Oil Fruit and Textiles
In the best possible way, there’s a lot going on here. The brightly coloured, boldly patterned cloth weaves through the scene, loudly connecting each still life object with another. The more we look at it, the more we love it.
Stewart Lowdon (b. 1932) - 20th Century Watercolour Apples and China
The details in this exquisite Hungarian School etching speaks volumes. Every stitch of fine lace is lovingly depicting under beautiful ceramics vessels.
Valér Ferenczy (1885-1954) - Hungarian School Early 20th Century Etching Jugs
The yellow mount is a bold choice to say the least. However we seem to have forgotten all about it as we’re completely lost in the tablecloth pattern.
Every fold in this sumptuous fabric is carefully placed to add depth and texture to the overall scene. A truly luxurious piece.
The Dorothy Southern collection is a masterclass in incorporating bold textile design into still life studies. We just love the way she’s plonked a bowl of onions onto her kilim rug and still made it look SO stylish.
Note how the clothmaker admires his work. What a lovely scene.
It’s rare to find a life drawing without a great bit of drapery, this colourful acrylic study takes pride in adhering to this tradition.
The way clothes are captured can make or break a portrait, but luckily E. L Edwards does it beautifully every time. There’s not a lot known about this mystery artist, but one thing for sure is that they were an expert in texture and tone.
This bold study is inspired by the infamous still life work of Cézanne.
It would be a crime to choose just one Dorothy Southern piece for a textile inspired post.
The shadows! The quaint gingham! We adore this pastel piece.
John Hopwood (1942-2015) - 1979 Pastel Summer Flowers On Blue Check
The juxtaposing textures of the crystal glass and soft satin fabric in this mid century piece creates an image that you could just reach into and feel.