Issue 84 Surface
Selvedge Magazine
Couldn't load pickup availability
September / October 2018
Issue 84 Surface
30,000 women are estimated to have joined the processions across the UK in June, that marked the 100th anniversary of some women winning the right to vote in 1918. Their continuing political message was disseminated via the many beautiful banners on display. It is no surprise that these women chose sewing as a medium through which to communicate their message and to make social connections. After all cloth, far from being neutral, carries more connotations than any other material. This of course is no new phenomenon: one can find examples as far back as the Bayeux Tapestry. Again and again textiles are chosen as a means of commemorating historic events, making political comment and bringing communities together. It therefore seems logical that to commemorate the world cup – a levelling event that unites the population – the BBC chose an embroidered tapestry for their World Cup campaign.
"What is it about thread that is so appealing? Within contemporary society there is a hunger for sensual experiences that can only be satisfied by handle and texture. We are surrounded by smooth surfaces, from screens to kitchen counters, floors and cars. Clothing is increasingly constructed from a narrow range of nylon and cotton fibre – while appealing to the eye, these leave the hand starved of stimulus. In this issue we celebrate surface in all its forms; from Anni Albers’ textural weaving, Jane and Mary Parminter’s shell gallery, to Liciê Hunsche’s work with the fleece of Karakul sheep. Claudy Jongstra’s spongy felts, Hildur Bjarnadóttir’s delicate sheers, Nicola Kilmartin’s fulled tweeds and the vintage satin and lace Julia Craig fashions into contemporary garments, are all able to satisfy the hand as well as the eye."
Polly Leonard, Founder, Selvedge Magazine
*Contents are subject to change
Share
















A truly enjoyable read
This magazine is a joy to read on every level. It is well researched, interesting and beautifully written. It cleverly connects the distant past with cutting edge current practice and has inspired me to learn more about both. Now I want to read more!
Visually very satisfying and intellectually stimulating
I always find Selvedge Magazine visually very satisfying and intellectually stimulating. I have all the issues in my library and will have to find a good institution to donate then to when the time comes. I remember getting issue 00 at some conference or meeting in the US when you were first starting out. Bravo again for so many years of sharing the joy of textiles in all its varied forms with all of us.
Congratulations on your vision!
I’ve just been looking up your magazine, and absolutely love it! It seems like it knits together all the slices of delight that are left over in our soul when we are spent with our daily survival transactions…..congratulations on your vision!
I treasure each issue
Your exquisite magazine - I treasure each issue and feel fortunate to receive it.
Selvedge endlessly nourishes my soul
Selvedge endlesslynourishes my soul. Much love and gratitude to Pollyand the Selvedge clan.