The theatre is a reoccurring motif throughout this project, developed through illustration, film, and an immersive exhibition space. This visual places women in the spotlight to highlight their increasing visibility in the textiles industry. The narrative of women transforming under the watchful eyes of society is communicated through ballet. Layered details in both the costume and set reference the voices of female artisans that came before.

This body of work is influenced by metamorphosis, referencing the transformation from suppression to liberation and freedom as a metaphor for women’s presence in the textiles industry. Once hidden and restricted by harsh mill conditions, however, at last able to escape their cocoons and blossom. This transformation is referenced by using imagery inspired by cocoons and butterflies, as well as giving disposed textile materials a new life.

This project seeks to restore visibility of unknown female artisans whose voices have been consumed by the textile industry. Typically feminine, recycled resources were reused to pay homage to crafts dominated by women. As well as quotes from female mill workers embedded within the layers of a butterfly costume, creating many fine layers of embroidered messages, ensuring their experiences remain remembered.