Sep 21, 2024 to Jan 5, 2025
Tracing Patterns
Curated as a companion to Meera Sethi: A Brief History of Wear in our Main Gallery, Tracing Patterns delves into the depiction of textiles in works from our permanent collection. This exhibition features a diverse array of portraits—ranging from formally posed depictions to quick, sketched observations—highlighting fabrics such as lace, brocade, tweed, silk, cotton, and denim. Some works, like William Berczy’s detailed portrait of Archduchess Maria Theresa, vividly capture the textures and intricacies of the fabrics. In contrast, others, such as F. H. Varley’s pencil sketches of street scenes, offer more abstract representations, hinting at garments with minimal detail of texture or colour.
To engage visitors, the exhibition features interactive displays where you can touch and feel fabric swatches corresponding to those represented in the works on view. These swatches not only bring the artworks to life but also invite you to imagine the textures and sensations of the garments represented, enhancing your understanding of the clothing beyond mere visual observation.