The TextielLab continuously tracks social developments and the changing needs of the makers who come to work in the lab. In the coming years, the lab will focus on two topical and substantive issues: knowledge & innovation and sustainability. One of the themes – technological innovation – is at the heart of a research and development project awarded to Studio Drift in 2020-2022. Although R&D projects are complex and demanding, the lab believes that investments in time and money can promote technological innovation. Not only can the TextielLab provide the best possible service to the artists and designers who come to work here, but internal expertise can also be expanded and strengthened for the benefit of future makers.
Studio Drift was asked to develop an aesthetic, intriguing textile with a focus on change through light and/or movement. The object had to be – or have the potential to be – executed on a large scale. In addition, Studio Drift, together with the TextielLab’s technical experts, were required to produce a textile object that offers both a functional solution for a space and astonishes visitors. Initially, two years of development time was allocated for the project, so that the TextielLab's technical team could explore specific issues raised by Studio Drift's design. Due, among other things, to the delayed approval of the design and the Covid-19 pandemic, the development period was reduced to one year. This time will be spent conducting in-depth research and developing the object. The first prototype is due to be shown during the ‘Smart Textiles’ exhibition and pave the way for phase two: a spectacular final product for the updated museum that, ideally, responds to museum visitors.
Following several experiments on the knitting machines, Studio Drift eventually opted for weaving to develop their project. The woven work will be displayed in the museum in autumn 2023, as part of the ‘Smart Textiles’ exhibition.
