20 August – 24 September 2011

Collins Gallery, University of Strathclyde

22 Richmond St, Glasgow

Following the success of previous exhibitions of international textile art, most

recently from Mongolia, Iran and Japan, the Collins Gallery has originated the

UK’s first exhibition of contemporary fashion and textile art from Kyrgyzstan.

Curated in close collaboration with Kyrgyz textile specialist, Dr Stephanie

Bunn, Department Social Anthropology, University of St Andrews, and Dinara

Chochunbaeva, Director of Central Asia Crafts Support Association in Kyrgyzstan,

this vibrant and comprehensive exhibition represents the practices of some 50

designers and makers from Bishkek, Naryn and Issy Kul regions. Traditional

techniques such as shyrdak , chiy and felt making as well as the more universal

practices of weaving and embroidery are illustrated in a broad range of decorative

hangings, soft furnishings ,dolls and clothing, all of which will be displayed alongside

high fashion and accessories created by internationally established designers whose

collections are showcased on the catwalks of Paris, New York, Santa Fe, Washington,

Moscow, Beijing and Bishkek. Also included, are more experimental collections by

new graduates of Design and Fashion from the Slavic University, most of whom have

secured placements and employment in Fashion Houses worldwide, and by Altynai

Osmoeva, currently studying at St Martin’s College, London. Continue reading →