An exhibition focusing on this major and ongoing research project, which set out to investigate the fashion design potential of new fabrics made from ‘old world’ organic Kala cotton (Gossipium Herbaceum) grown in Kachchh, India.

Unlike most of the cotton grown in India today, which is hybridized with other plants or genetically modified, Kala cotton is indigenous and genetically pure. The aim of the Kala Cotton project is to re-establish a holistic approach to sustainable cotton textile production and to find methods of adding value to a previously under-appreciated fibre. Field to Fashion established a model for collaboration between UK design and Indian crafts practices, tested through an exhibition of prototype garments at the British Council’s Queens Gallery, New Delhi.

Project outcomes:

1. Exhibition: Welsh, A. Vishram, S. (2013) Field to Fashion. 27 Garments. Queens Gallery, British Council, New Delhi. India. 7th – 13th November.

2. Paper: Hare-Duke, B. Dixon, S. Welsh, A. (2014) Here and There and Back Again. South Asian Arts Group Forum. Manchester Metropolitan University. 27th March.

3. Publication: Welsh, A. (2013) Field to Fashion. Manchester Metropolitan University.