what is textile art
(and why it matters to me)
When people ask me what I do, I often say: I’m a textile artist. But what does that actually mean?
At its heart, textile art is about taking fibers, threads, and fabrics and turning them into something expressive, something that tells a story. Humans have been doing this for thousands of years, from ancient Egyptian linen to Chinese silk, from medieval tapestries to modern fiber sculptures. Textile art has always been a way to create beauty, preserve culture, and express identity.
But here’s the part that fascinates me: even though it’s ancient, textile art feels more alive than ever today. Artists are experimenting, mixing old and new, pushing boundaries in ways that constantly surprise me.
a living tradition
There are so many techniques under the umbrella of textile art: embroidery, weaving, quilting, felting, macramé… each with its own rhythm, history, and possibilities.
I personally started with macramé, which I fell into almost by accident during a very challenging season of my life. Later, weaving entered the picture, and eventually crochet, a craft I grew up around, surrounded by the masters in my own family (my grandmother and great-aunties).
For me, each technique carries a voice. Macramé feels bold and sculptural, weaving feels layered and textural, and crochet feels nostalgic, connecting me back to family and heritage. I love combining them in unexpected ways, creating something that feels contemporary but rooted in tradition.
a quick journey through time
Textile art has traveled a long path:
In ancient civilizations, textiles were both practical and symbolic — from Egyptian flax to Chinese silk.
In the Middle Ages, European artisans told entire stories through textiles (the Bayeux Tapestry is basically a medieval comic strip!).
The Industrial Revolution changed everything, making textiles cheaper and faster to produce, but also sparking a renewed appreciation for handmade work.
And today, textile art is breaking all the rules embracing sustainability, experimenting with materials, and stepping confidently into galleries and homes alike.
why it still matters today
In our digital, fast-moving world, I think textile art has a special place. It reminds us to slow down, to notice texture and touch. Every handmade piece carries the imprint of the maker. Something mass production can never replace.
Textile art also speaks to values that feel very urgent right now:
Sustainability: working with natural fibers and mindful making.
Cultural connection: techniques passed down through generations, carrying stories with them.
Healing and mindfulness: the act of creating itself is meditative, a way of processing emotions and finding calm.
bringing textile art into your life
You don’t need to visit a gallery to enjoy textile art. It belongs in everyday life. A wall hanging above your bed, a framed tapestry in the living room, a sculpture that plays with shadow and space. These pieces add warmth and depth to a home in a way that feels alive and personal.
And if you’ve ever thought about trying it yourself, I highly encourage it! Start small, with a simple macramé project or a weaving kit. There’s something truly grounding about working with your hands, knot by knot, thread by thread.
Textile art is old and new at the same time. It’s history, culture, healing, and creativity, all woven together. For me, it’s not just what I make, it’s how I live, process, and connect.
So next time you see a tapestry or a wall hanging, take a closer look. Every knot, every stitch, every layer has a story to tell.
And if you’re curious to explore more, you can always peek into my collections here or if you’re local, join one of my workshops. Who knows? You might just discover the artist in yourself.