My collections and selections will be on display in the window collection at National Centre for Craft & Design, Sleaford, from 3rd May to 13th July 2014
When faced with the task of selecting some objects which define my inspiration, I was almost overwhelmed. For years the main source of my ideas has been museum collections, buildings and the emotions surrounding objects and places. I can’t put any of those into a cabinet…
What I have gathered together for this exhibition is a selection of objects of significance in my journey towards being the textile artist that I am today, from early childhood through to my first career working in museums. Some are directly inspirational, such as the historical textiles, while some represent aspects of my character which come out in my work as an artist and maker. Others are by makers I admire while some are just interesting and curious things that represent how magpie-mind works, drawing inspiration from all kinds of sources.
My current work is around textiles and emotion. I am interested in how cloth is so emotionally powerful and how stories are deeply embodied in the fabrics we touch every day. This really stems from my training and first career in museums, where I was very focussed on the study of objects; their makers, their owners; their stories.
The exhibition also includes some of my recent work as well as some early pieces, showing quite a radical change in my style. Creating non-functional exhibition work and installations rather than products has been hugely liberating for me, and finally it all makes sense with my collecting habits too, as I am now using the old, worn fabrics I love and incorporating curious found objects.
Private view, Friday 2nd May 6pm
Ruth Singer 
Pingback: Design Factory Fellow | Ruth Singer