Textile artists inspired by architecture

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”Architecture arouses sentiments in man. The architect’s task, therefore, is to make those sentiments more precise.” Adolf Loos

Like architecture, textile art can stimulate emotion, both in the artist and in the viewer. So what happens when architecture and textile art are combined?

We looked at the work of five artists and one couple, who include buildings of all kinds in their art using a variety of materials and techniques. From appliqué and collage using Indian sari silks and trimmings to aerial maps layered with silk organza. They design structures using fine, illustrative hand and machine stitch, some in knitted cotton yarn, others shaped out of shimmering rayon thread on the finest Irish linen. Each has a beauty, style and impression of its own.

Jackie Gale, Valerie Goodwin, Deborah Toner, Jake Henzler, Gillian Bates and Charles-Henry and Elin Petronella share with us their ideas, their hows and whys – and a piece that was fit for a queen.

You may never look at buildings quite the same again.

Key takeaways

Inspiring architecture is all around us, from city centre buildings to cottages, manor houses and beach huts. Our artists have described very different ways of depicting architecture using thread and fabric. Why not try some of their ideas and techniques.

Sketching helps, not only to bring the image home with you but also to imprint the dimensions, architectural details and colours in your mind – ready to transfer to textiles.
Wall-hanging and pictures are a great way to display your art, but, like Deborah Toner, you can also embroider onto fabric for household textiles and giftware, like cushions, lampshades and make-up bags.
Your buildings don’t have to be real – Jackie Gale and Valerie Goodwin stitch imaginary buildings and maps.
Jackie says: ‘Let the textures tell the story.’ She gains inspiration from crumbly, weathered and old walls, boats – whatever she sees. Keep your eyes open and take lots of photos to work from later.
A technique that Valerie uses is to create layers using silk organza, adding transparency. It’s something favoured by Emily Jo Gibbs and described in our interview with her.

Textile artist Haf Weighton uses machine embroidery to stitch buildings of all kinds – check out our interview with Haf.

We’d love to know what you think about these artists’ work. Let us know in the comments below.