ABOUT
Hi, I’m Abeer Kayani. I specialised in hand-dyed and printed textiles from University for the Creative Arts, Surrey. I love working with bold colour and intricate patterns. These are an integral expression of my cultural identity. In Pakistan, I grew up surrounded by luscious material, embroidery, print and jewellery. I am currently based in Southampton.
My designs are inspired by harmonious, repetitive patterns, developed using CAD and hand-screen print. I enjoy using a range of silks which make each outcome unique and bespoke. I also use a range of dye and print techniques that allow me to work in a highly experimental and creative way.
I find light and shadow structures, architectural elements and degrading forms very intriguing and am always looking for ways to create work with an odd, playful twist!
You can currently find my silk accessories stocked in Liberty of London as part of a collaboration with the Crafts Council. Book in a creative workshop 7th July or attend my panel talk 23rd June as part of this programme here.
Want to see my work range? Visit my online portfolio here.
JOURNEY
After graduating I exhibited at New Designers 2019 in Islington. I was an Artist in Residence at the Watts Gallery, Guildford. This was an invaluable opportunity which allowed me to work from a studio space in the beautiful Surrey landscape. I researched colour and performed experimental studies. My residency was part of the ongoing exhibition of Victorian Orientalist painter John Frederick Lewis. This was followed by my course with the Prince’s Trust to launch my business.
I had the opportunity to be a guest speaker at the 2020 Westminster media forum for Arts Council England. Through the summer lockdown of 2020 I worked on an installation commission for Solent Showcase Gallery alongside Nazneen Pathak. This project materialized with the support of Mayflower 400 and was on display in the eight-metre long window space at the Solent Showcase Gallery from May 2021 – April 2022. Missed the exhibition? You can find more information here or visit my Instagram page for some behind-the-scenes footage! Using experimental hand dyeing and screen-printing techniques I was commissioned to craft an interactive installation artwork for Manifesting the Unseen Collective. This was exhibited in a group show at Southampton City Art Gallery May – October 2021.
During the spring/summer season I stocked my collection of luxury silks with Liberty of London from April – August 2022. This was part of a partnership with the Crafts Council, involving a group of nine exceptional makers from a variety of disciplines from textiles, furniture design, wood work, ceramics and more, read more about each maker here. This was followed by an awarded solo showcase with Llantarnam Grange in Cwmbran, Wales 02 Sept – 31 October 2022.
Want to keep up with my shows and projects? Join my Newsletter here to find out where you can see my next. I send out a newsletter every 4-6 weeks, keeping it colourful, exclusive and relevant!
COLLECTION
My Transition silk scarves were launched and exhibited at the New Ashgate Gallery in Farnham from March- July 2020 as part of their Rising Stars 2020 exhibition. These are now available to view and purchase online here. Did you know my collection of luxury silks have been stocked in Liberty of London, featured on the BBC as well as received a Craft Skills award from Devon Guild in partnership with Craft Festival. If you are looking for a bespoke design, size or color option drop me an email and I would be happy to advise!
MENTIONS
CRAFT CONVERSATION: Interview recording
Anytime Artisan: Silky Smooth Stocking filler
Craft Festival: 5 Favourites by Llantarnam Grange Arts Centre
Soton Etsy: Festive Guide
Anytime Artisan: Exhibitor Profile
Making Matters: Exhibitor Profile
Shortlisted Rising Stars of 2020
ArtsThread: BA (Hons) Textile Design Graduates 2019
Farnham Herald, May 2019 Edition
Life in Farnham, May 2019 Edition
SDC International Colour Competition 2019
