Hannah Robson is a Leeds based artist trained in woven textiles. She combines her technical grounding in textiles with an open approach to research and willingness to experiment with materials and processes – which includes hand weaving in the studio and working directly with manufacturers. Here she tells us more about her involvement with the Loops exhibition.
I am an Artist and weaver interested in the spatial qualities of textiles. Often working with paper yarns, wire and materials with inherent structural properties, I explore the subtle power of textiles to transform our surroundings. Focussing on shifts in density and texture, and the interplay of light on materials, I create delicate forms and surfaces directly on the loom. I am inspired by the connections and infrastructures, both natural and man-made which make up our world – from electrical wiring to leaf skeletons – these systems overlap in a complex, synchronised and endless dance. I make layered and translucent woven sculptures, inviting viewers to look through the surface and consider the complex pathways of each thread.
How did you get involved with the exhibition Loops?
I was selected through the open call.
How did you find responding to the theme of loops?
Initially I was interested in how the action of looping is present in so much textile making, the actions of knitting, weaving and stitching all involve looping as a key movement or motif in the process. In the autumn, the Yorkshire artists came to visit Sunny Bank Mills together. We spent ages exploring the magic of the Old Woollen building and all the loops and chains and belts and connections from various parts of the Mills’ infrastructure. It was great to find a way to connect the theme to the site and draw directly from the richness of Sunny Bank Mills itself.
What loops inspired your work in the exhibition?
The fantastic loops and belts and chains found at the Mills, and the cycle of processes and machinery for industry.
What is special to you about the exhibition Loops?
Part of the process, I made some woven cloth and belts and gave them to Andi (Walker) and Jane (Claire Wilson) with the instructions to do whatever they wanted with the pieces. It was exciting to trust in the process and see what would happen. I also loved using pieces made for me by Jane. She created incredible chunky wrapped yarns and it was liberating and fun to see how I could incorporate them into my weaving. It was also special to see the work at the end of the install week and see the connections between all 6 artists in the space. Together we have made things which wouldn’t have been possible individually. That process has been rich and inspiring.
Have you ever worked collaboratively as an artist before? What have been the challenges and joys this time, or for the first time?
I have worked collaboratively in lots of different ways in the past – it’s always fun and enriching to work with others and I’m always seeking out interesting ways to connect creatively. This time it was different because of being physically separated from the Dutch artists – it was a big challenge to find ways of imagining the work together. It meant that the week of working together in the Gallery was really precious!
What has been your experience of creating art at Sunny Bank Mills?
I always love working with Sunny Bank Mills. It is a is a really special place, the team is so generous and supportive at every step of the process. The very bricks of the buildings hum with history and creative potential all for the future. It was a privilege to spend a whole week at Sunny Bank Mills absorbing and responding to its particular special magic.
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