Unveiling The Linen Biennale Exhibition

Exhibition Opening
Written By Digital Officer

A Celebration of Art, Culture, & Sustainability in Belfast

Mark your calendars for Thursday, August 3rd, 2023, as Belfast Print Workshop (BPW) prepares to open its doors to art enthusiasts, history lovers, and sustainability advocates for an extraordinary event – The Linen Biennale. This group exhibition promises to be a captivating celebration of Ireland's oldest textile, linen, and its profound impact on art, culture, and environmental sustainability.

 

Connecting the Threads of History

Rooted in heritage, The Linen Biennale serves as a bridge that spans generations, reaching out to the last of those who once worked in the heyday of Ulster's linen production. At the same time, it invites modern audiences to experience the timeless beauty of linen art and explore its contemporary uses. This ambitious project combines the legacy of the past with a forward-thinking vision, creating new opportunities for the future of linen and flax.

Fostering Artistic Innovation

Supported by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, The Linen Biennale was born from a feasibility study that explored the cultural celebration of Lisburn's linen history. The goal is to give linen contemporary relevance by incorporating it into a diverse festival program of visual arts and related events. By engaging with local and international practitioners and audiences, the event aims to foster fresh approaches to working with this ancient fiber that is deeply ingrained in local culture.

Beyond Tradition: Embracing Sustainability

One of the unique aspects of The Linen Biennale is its focus on sustainability. The event draws attention to linen and flax fiber as environmentally friendly materials with authentic local stories. Artists and designers are encouraged to explore new possibilities, such as flax composites for furniture, bicycles, surfboards, and musical instruments, showcasing the economic potential of these versatile materials.

Art's Impact on Communities

The Linen Biennale exemplifies the transformative power of art in communities. Thanks to the support of National Lottery players and funds raised for good causes, this cultural celebration has the potential to contribute significantly to local tourism and economic growth. Comparable events in other regions have proven their success, attracting thousands of visitors and leaving a lasting economic impact.

 
 

A Month of Creativity and Inspiration

The Linen Biennale is not just a one-night affair; it spans throughout the month of August, creating a festival-like atmosphere that coincides with the province-wide promotion of August Craft Month by Craft NI and European Heritage Open Days. The program includes an exciting group exhibition at Belfast Print Workshop, as well as engaging talks by esteemed guest speakers and captivating demonstrations, providing visitors with an intimate look at the creative process.

Join Us for The Linen Biennale

If you are passionate about art, culture, sustainability, or simply curious to explore the world of linen, The Linen Biennale is an event not to be missed. Make sure to mark your calendar for August 3rd, 2023, and head to Belfast Print Workshop, Cotton Court, 30-42 Waring St., Belfast BT1 2ED. The Linen Biennale promises to be an unforgettable experience that will inspire and leave you with a deeper appreciation for the heritage and future potential of linen and flax.

 

To stay updated with the full schedule of events and additional information, visit the official Linen Biennale Twitter: @linenaliveni. Be part of this momentous celebration that weaves together the threads of history, culture, and sustainability through the artistry of linen. We look forward to welcoming you at The Linen Biennale in Belfast! 🌾✨🎨

The Linen Biennale has been made possible by funding from National Lottery Heritage Fund Northern Ireland.

 
 
Digital Officer https://bpw.org.uk
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