For the second day of In:Site there was a variety of different materials and techniques available for passersby to try out, often for the first time! Ryoji created a colourful textile artwork and Milly was busy teaching macramé and knotting techniques. Using local clay Xanthe invited the public to model small sculptures and Annie introduced many visitors to rag-rugging.

Ryoji Morimoto

Ryoji graduated in Textile Design for Fashion and Interior from Bath Spa University. In his practice he uses silk screen paint and hand embroidery, refreshing traditional techniques with a new aesthetic.

At In:Site Ryoji collected the wishes of the public which were written on the back of different good fortune motifs, choosing one that best reflected them. Then using an applique technique, the public could stitch their motif onto the larger artwork creating a colourful finished piece.

The work was displayed in the trees, with the public’s secret wishes hidden within the textile artwork.

Follow Ryoji on Instagram to find out more about his practice: @ryoji.textile

Milly Day

Milly graduated in Textile Design from Hereford College of the Arts. Using repurposed and unusual materials, Milly invited people to collaborate on large scale macramé pieces. At In:Site Milly was taught various knotting techniques and inspired visitors about how they could create the same decorative works at home.

The colourful, ‘dream-catcher’ hoops were displayed hanging from the trees and lamp posts in the Cathedral Square.

Take a look at Milly’s Instagram to learn about her practice. @millydaydesign

Xanthe Maggs

Xanthe went to the University of Brighton, graduating in 3D Design and Craft, Ceramics. Xanthe went especially to the Lickey Hills to dig local clay to use at In:Site festival. On a large map of the city centre of Birmingham, the public were invited to use the local clay to create personal objects relating to their experiences of living, or visiting, the city of Birmingham.

There were representations of books, food, cars as well as office buildings, architecture and even a cat!

Follow Xanthe on Instagram to see more of her work: @xanthe_maggs

Annie Wilkinson

Annie graduated from Birmingham City University in Art & Design and is currently working towards her Masters degree. Annie was inspired by lichen, moss and funghi and the way they reclaim the urban environment. She invited the public to use rag-rugging techniques to create a textual art work that replicates the growing surface of moss or lichen. The rag-rugging technique and different tools was new to many members of the public who quickly became hooked with the process, staying for a long time to add their part to the artwork.

The finished pieces were photographed on one of the gravestones before being displayed on the railings of the Cathedral Square.

See more of Annie’s textiles practice on her website: anniewilkinson.co.uk and follow her on Instagram: @annie_wilkinson_