A captivating exhibition showcasing the intricate and resilient craftsmanship of Sri Lankan handloom weavers has opened at Studio40, located at 40 Queen Street, Neath, SA11 1DL. Running from May 17th to June 15th, this exhibition features the collaborative textile research of Dr. Sumith Gopura and Dr. Ayesha Wickramasinghe from the Department of Textile and Apparel Engineering, alongside several international textile artists.
The centerpiece of the exhibition, titled "Dreams of Weaving," was conceived during the Covid-19 pandemic, funded by SRC-short term grants and with the support from Sri Lanka's Department of Industries. It highlights the socio-emotional identities of Sri Lankan handloom weavers, encapsulating their personal stories and showcasing their meticulous crafting skills. The exhibit displays the longest handloom textile of its kind, woven on a single warp and adorned with the most extensive collection of designs by 27 artisans, aged 19 to 72, from various regions across Sri Lanka that has taken about 2 years to complete.
Sri Lanka's heritage in handicrafts, especially handloom textiles, is a cornerstone of its cultural identity. Despite their global potential, the artisans behind these creations often remain in the shadows. "Dreams of Weaving" brings their socio-emotional identities to the forefront, underlining the importance of their contributions to this fine craft sector.
This monumental textile narrates the profound impact of the handloom industry on these artisans, offering them a sense of worth, identity, and resilience amidst life's challenges. "Handloom products are not mere artifacts but are imbued with sentimental values and rich histories," explain Dr. Gopura and Dr. Wickramasinghe. They emphasize that promoting handloom in this aspect can significantly support one of Sri Lanka's vital craft sectors.
The project also aims to celebrate the diversity within the handloom textile industry, focusing on innovative product development rooted in the artisans' socio-emotional identities. It aims to rejuvenate Sri Lanka's declining handicraft industry by engaging younger generations and positioning handloom weaving as a viable and skilled profession.
"Our research and international exhibitions like this aim to popularize Sri Lankan handloom products locally and globally, boosting the economy and fostering sustainable communities," states Dr. Gopura. By presenting handloom textiles as culturally and emotionally significant products, they aim to align Sri Lankan handloom with the global fashion industry, promoting it as an environmentally friendly and sustainable option.
The researchers express their gratitude to the 27 artisans, weaving center instructors, and the provincial directors of the Southern, Western, and Central provinces under the Department of Industries. Special thanks also go to Ms. Dilmini Munasinghe, the research assistant, for her invaluable support. Their detailed findings are published in notable journals, highlighting the project's significance.
Gopura, S., & Wickramasinghe, A. (2022). Dreams of Weaving: Creative Practice-Led Approach to Handloom Product Development in Sri Lanka Using Artisans’ Socio-Emotional Identities. Fashion Practice, 1-22.
Gopura, S., & Wickramasinghe, A. (2023). Weaving Emotions: Unravelling the Emotional Significance of Sri Lankan Handloom Artistry. Journal of Humanities and Applied Social Sciences. doi:10.1108/JHASS-07-2023-0082
Residents of Wales and visitors alike are invited to Studio40 to witness this extraordinary display of Sri Lankan handloom artistry and the compelling stories of its weavers.
Link to exhibition information.
https://www.queenstreetgalleryneath.co.uk/textile-information
