Textile artist and curator Bruno Vinhas will showcase his work at the upcoming Collect Art Fair 2025, emphasizing sustainability and cultural heritage.
Bruno Vinhas, recognized as a textile artist and curator, is set to showcase his work as part of the Craft Alliance Atlantic Association exhibition at the upcoming Collect Art Fair 2025 in Somerset House, London. The fair, renowned for its focus on contemporary craft, provides a platform for artists like Vinhas to exhibit work that reflects cultural heritage, inclusivity, and a commitment to the global craft community.
Vinhas, who possesses a robust background in Cultural Tourism and Hospitality as well as a degree in Textiles: Craft & Apparel Design, has been a driving force in fostering the craft sector. His artistic and curatorial practices intertwine, enriched by his diverse cultural heritage, which includes influences from European immigrants, native Brazilians, and African descents. In an interview with Selvedge Magazine, he shared, “My very first memory of textile work is sitting at the foot of my gran’s sewing cabinet and going through the scraps of fabric as she graciously worked on garments and houseware for my family.”
His latest curatorial endeavor focuses on the significance of sustainability in craft, particularly its relationship with land and water. Since 2023, Vinhas has been engaged in the study of sustainable craft practices, culminating in the organization of a Sustainable Fibre Arts Conference in Gros Morne, Newfoundland, scheduled for fall 2024. He noted that interactions with local communities have been instrumental in shaping his understanding of textiles. “The most inspiring place to learn about textiles traditions and contemporary practices is immersing yourself in the community that inspires you,” he elaborated.
At the Collect Art Fair, Vinhas aims to present works that are deeply connected to the Atlantic Canadian landscape and its waterways, emphasizing how these elements inspire artists’ practices. He believes the exhibition will transcend temporal and spatial boundaries, showcasing pieces that evoke strong emotional connections between the creator, the object, and the viewer. He expressed a vision that the exhibition will highlight the interconnectedness of the Atlantic region’s craft community and foster a deeper understanding of artistic expression tied to cultural histories.
Vinhas highlighted several artists whose work will be featured, including Rilla Marshall’s Meta Weaving series, Ralph Simpson’s intricate fibre sculptures, and Anastasia Tiller’s vibrant rug-hooked pieces, all as exemplars of contemporary textile art. He pointed out that both Wanbing Huang and Michelle House are also artists to keep an eye on, appearing at the Collect Open segment of the fair.
When asked about his personal favorites from the exhibition, Vinhas revealed a particular admiration for Ralph Simpson’s woven sculptures, indicating a deep respect for the artist’s approach to materiality and form. He also mentioned his aspiration to own a piece by renowned artist Richard McVetis, admiring his embroidery technique and thematic depth.
The Craft Alliance Atlantic Association exhibition promises to be a significant highlight at the Collect Art Fair 2025, reflecting a commitment to showcasing the rich tapestry of cultural narratives woven into the fabric of contemporary craft. As Vinhas prepares for the event, his dedication to crafting meaningful connections through textiles remains clear, underscoring the importance of craft as a storytelling medium.
Source: Noah Wire Services
