Wednesday 10 December 2014

The mnemonic qualities of textiles: Sustaining lifelong attachment

The mnemonic qualities of textiles: Sustaining lifelong attachment
Emma Peters

Unknown artist, Patchwork quilt, n.d., cotton fabric, cotton thread, cardboard backing pieces, 1800 x 2100 mm
Photo: Danielle Chau


Abstract This paper uses Jonathon Chapman’s theory of emotionally durable design to explore how memory is invested in and lends value to textile artefacts, thus ensuring their enduring preservation. Through an examination of the works of Elisa Markes-Young, John Parkes, Sara Lindsay and Ilka White, the paper argues that a greater understanding of objects with mnemonic qualities provides new ways of challenging object obsolescence for art and design practice, thus offering a model for sustainable design.


Abstract from The mnemonic qualities of textiles: Sustaining lifelong attachment
Full paper published in craft+design enquiry: issue 6 Issue 6 2014, Craft.Material.Memory

textiles, memory, sustainability, material culture, biography, design