Computer Aided design for weaving one off pieces on the theme of light and shade

This body of research was exhibited over four days in the Perth Institute of Contemporary Art, located in the centre of Perth. It was one of the satellite events of the Space Between conference.

The work represented the start of an AHRB funded project which ran from 2003 to 2004. It involved the development of handwoven textiles which exploited computer technology, challenging the notion of repeat pattern associated with dobby weaving. It sought to explore boundaries of scale and composition in relation to the woven image by investigating practical methods: controlled dye techniques, introduction and manipulation of light responsive yarns and computer-controlled jacquard and dobby technology.

A key element of the research was the quest for a singular aesthetic centring on the pieces and their presentation within an architectural environment.

At this half-way stage of the project – and following extensive trials - the final pieces had evolved as three-dimensional structures; precision-made, shallow frames, supporting and tensioning the woven lengths, concealing and enclosing UV lights which played the part of effectively backlighting and subtly activating fluorescent fibres, strategically woven into in the textile composition.

Jennifer Shellard

Research Interests

Light emitting; Minimal textile compositions; Woven textile installations; U.V. activated fluorescent; Digital colour animation; Subjective colour interaction

Current Research

My investigation into qualities and interactions of textiles with light continue to evolve and develop through a range of processes. Research into light responsive materials initially led to the development of installations - assembled structures - which integrated hand woven textiles with concealed U.V. lighting. The effect of the illumination, whilst distinctly visible in the work, harmonised discreetly and provided a soft focus by activating fluorescent elements within the composition, decreasing gradually and with subtlety down the length of the installation.

Hand-woven lengths were tensioned over structures housing the U.V. lights. These were strategically positioned to optimise the effect of the yarns as well as enhancing the incrementally gradating weave structures. This line of enquiry has recently evolved into experiments with strategically positioned digital light projection in which animated fragments of colour very slowly change through a spectrum to interact with the engineered colour compositions of the textile. The effect is intentionally subtle and challenges the viewer's perceptual experience.
As the project continues to evolve, I aim to seek opportunities for collaborations in developing and exhibiting in architectural spaces where ambient lighting can be manipulated, and where the impact of light and colour on the various reactive materials can be precisely manipulated.