Overview

Inspired by the current Whitworth exhibition by artist Delaine Le Bas, Turner Prize nominee (2024). Her multidisciplinary work addresses nationhood, gender, identity and belonging through embroidery, painting, sculpture, installation and performance. The exhibition places new and recent work, including 'Un-Fair Ground' from Glastonbury Festival 2024, in dialogue with the Whitworth's collection, exploring themes of magic, folklore and witchcraft. 

This brief begins by exploring how clothing can operate as an extension of artistic practice—a space for self‑expression, storytelling, and celebration. Inspired by Delaine Le Bas’s work, you are invited to investigate your own experiences of nationhood, belonging, gender, and identity.

Building on this, you will develop imaginative, idea‑led outcomes informed by both the exhibition and Le Bas’s multidisciplinary approach.

Your Input

An upcycling fashion workshop with Delaine Le Bas and Wendy Roby will take place on Friday 24 April, 1–3pm. The session will involve textile experimentation, garment transformation, embroidery, painting, and inspiration drawn from folklore, nature, and personal narratives.

Possible outputs include artworks, performance, film, textiles, sculpture, and wearable pieces that explore themes such as identity, sustainability, storytelling, and cultural references.

Alongside this, students will produce a mini‑portfolio, fanzine, film, or moving‑image piece that documents their concept development and process‑led experimentation. The project will culminate in one fully resolved final outcome that synthesises their research, creative enquiry, and practical exploration.

Eligibility:

Open to first- and second-year students only. From any creative discipline.

Selection:

A shortlist of 20 students will be chosen by academics.

How to Apply:

Submit your name and contact details, along with:

• A 300‑word expression of interest explaining why you would like to take part.

• Images of your practice. (Please include a Link in your expression of interest statement)

Deadline:

Applications must be submitted by 6:00pm on Tuesday 10th March.

Interviews will take place on Wednesday 11^th March

Delivery Plan:

Support provided through weekly in person tutorials and making workshop sessions on Wednesdays.

• In person workshop at the Whitworth Art Gallery: Friday 24 April, 1–3pm

• Three-week making and teaching block (late April–May)

• Concept submissions: early-May.

Please direct all queries to the lead delivery staff.

Liz Silvester- L.silvester@mmu.ac.uk

Sarah Easom- s.easom@mmu.ac.uk