Designing Origins & Legacies: A Journey through Textile Exhibition Creation

The Origins & Legacies exhibition series is designed to celebrate the artistry and innovation inherent in textile and fashion design, with a particular focus on how cultural traditions influence contemporary creative practices. The event aims to explore the intricate design processes behind Andrea Aranow’s legendary collections, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship and creative vision that brought these textiles to life. By highlighting the interplay between traditional techniques and modern reinterpretations, the exhibition seeks to inspire designers and artists to draw on cultural heritage as a wellspring of creative innovation.

The exhibition also aims to educate the public on the design evolution of textiles and fashion, revealing how historical techniques continue to shape and inform contemporary design practices. Through carefully curated displays, visitors will gain insight into the design decisions that link the past with the present, fostering a deeper appreciation for the role of tradition in modern creative work.

In addition, the event promotes the importance of thoughtful and innovative exhibition design, emphasizing how the presentation of textiles can enhance their visual and cultural impact. The series encourages designers to consider how exhibition design can be used as a tool to communicate complex narratives and create immersive experiences for audiences.

The exhibition also serves as a platform for engaging the design community, offering a space for dialogue and exchange about the future of textile design and conservation. By focusing on the intersection of design, tradition, and innovation, Origins & Legacies seeks to leave a lasting impact on the field of textile design and inspire future generations of creators.

Rose Caughie is the Collections Manager and Exhibits Designer at Textile Hive. Rose’s background encompasses museum work, textile collection care, exhibition setup, and curation, endowing her with a rich expertise for her current role. She has contributed to projects at notable institutions such as Portland State University’s Textile Database, Oregon Historical Society, Gresham Historical Society, and Parallax Art Center, to name a few. Committed to the study and preservation of textile and dress history, Rose holds a BA in art history from Portland State University (PSU), where she achieved the distinction of being published three times before her graduation. She is now advancing her education by pursuing a certification in textile collections care and management from California State University, Long Beach (CSULB).