New Scientist recommends Material World at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
A photo of the Growing the Next Era of Fashion section of Material World
Inès Stuart-Davidson/RBG Kew
As a fashion lover, I was intrigued by the idea of visiting Material World, London’s Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew’s premier festival dedicated to fashion and textiles. Running in Temperate House until November 2, the exhibition sees artists, designers and scientists exploring plants, textiles and sustainability.
One of the most notable is that of Nnenna Okore. Between Earth and Sky. Suspended 20 meters above the ground, this large-scale sculptural work transforms simple materials into complex, immersive forms, while the use of biodegradable materials, responsibly sourced fibers and natural dyes encourages us to think about our own responsibilities.
The emphasis on organic materials continues in the Growing the Next Era of Fashion section, with clothing made from plants and fungi. I especially liked a dress knitted from pineapple fibers and nettle leaves (photo).
My main takeaway is that sustainability in fashion is as much a creative opportunity as it is a technical challenge, and that all our choices reveal our relationship with nature.
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