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Get Knitted explores how certain pre-occupations of contemporary culture are reflected through the activities of knitters. It explores the increased interest of makers and consumers in traditional patterns and techniques. Tait and Style's re-workings of patterns from the Northern Isles using innovative techniques illustrate how the integration of the traditional with the contemporary creates a highly desirable, modern object.
The rise of knitting and stitch and bitch groups is represented through the work of artist Rachael Matthews as an instigator of mass knitting through the Cast Off Knitting Club for Boys and Girls and events like the Knitted Wedding. Rachael has created a new pattern for Sheffield which visitors can take away and knit themselves.
The actual experience of knitting with other people is explored by artist Shane Waltener who brings together groups of people to create communally; he sees the final products as vessels for the experiences and stories shared over the course of their production. The exhibition also features Crowning a Purl by sound artist Jeff Goddard. Goddard recorded the sounds of friends knitting together and created a track which mirrors the hypnotic and social aspects of knitting.
Designer and lecturer Jemma Sykes' work has appeared in collections for Givenchy and Alexander McQueen amongst many other top fashion names. Her innovative use of materials and intricate hand and machine techniques push the technical possibilities of knit. Within this theme of pushing the boundaries of the craft sits the work of recent graduate Samantha Williams who along with award-winning fellow graduate Rebecca Holmes represents the ongoing success of constructed textile training in Britain.
The exhibition features plenty of opportunities to interact, you can watch Cast Off films, contribute to one of Shane Waltener's pieces during your visit and there will also be a sampler of knitting techniques for handling.
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