Xinyue Huang
Master Textile design Chelsea college of arts
“Blossom behind the sea” install in Airbnb Hangzhou 2022
“Blossom behind the sea” install in “Beyond the west lake” 2022
“Narcissus” in London Fitzrovia Gallery “Mirror and shadow” Exhibition 2024
This work explores sustainable silk materials and the upcycle approach to waste. My hometown, renowned for silk exports, inspired my research into pre-consumer silk waste. Familiar with the material since childhood, I aimed to make its use more ethical. In this project I focus on recycled silk brocades, reconstructing the material through aesthetics and research. The juxtaposition of women in modern factories and the ancient silk weaving industry informs my work, highlighting identity and labour issues in silk production. I hope this piece conveys the narrative of natural recycle material, encouraging audiences to consider sustainable materials and raising awareness of women's labour issues in the silk weaving industry.