Women in Print: 150 Years of Liberty Textiles

Exploring the evolving influence and status of women in textiles over the past 150 years.

This autumn, William Morris Gallery in Walthamstow will present Women in Print: 150 Years of Liberty Textiles. Conceived in partnership with Liberty Fabrics on the occasion of the design house’s 150th anniversary, this major exhibition will highlight the pivotal role and contributions of women textile designers. Tracing the rich history of Liberty fabrics, the exhibition will survey the evolving influence and status of women in textiles over the past 150 years.

Women in Print will bring together iconic patterns by designers such as Althea McNish, Collier Campbell, and Lucienne Day, alongside previously overlooked names, celebrating how women have been — and continue to be — at the heart of Liberty’s creative innovations and ongoing relevance today. It will feature over 100 works, spanning garments, fabric, original designs, film and historic photographs.

Founded in 1875, Liberty began as an importer of textiles and objets d’art from the Middle East and Asia before designing its own fabrics — its floral patterns soon becoming synonymous with British design. Highlights will include a BIBA trouser suit, a 1978 wedding dress, patchworked in 17 separate Liberty prints, and a contemporary Jalabiya (Mukhawar), featuring a design created by current Liberty Head of Design Polly Mason, embellished in beadwork by UAE-based company Colorful Line.

A new film, combining archival and contemporary footage as well as interviews with designers Sarah Campbell, Natalie Gibson, Neisha Crosland, and Penny Mason, will offer an insight into the stories of women who have created Liberty fabrics — giving a voice to the designs that continue to shape the industry today.

A programme of events, including mentoring and training for local young people, will underpin the exhibition and ask the question: what does the future for women textile designers in the UK look like?

Women in Print is curated by Rowan Bain, Principal Curator of Collections and Programme and Roisin Inglesby, Curator William Morris Gallery, with exhibition design by Simon Milthorp, Lai Couto and Scarlet Winter.

• Gallery opening hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 10am – 5pm
• Admission free (suggested £5 donation)