The exhibition "A new hook. Rethinking Needlework" sets out to explore current responses to the notion of craft, in particular needlework, in order to examine its impact in the discourse of art, design, architecture and everyday life. The return of materiality and processes in contemporary art and design, rediscovering potential in both traditional and innovative materials and techniques, go hand in hand with the current protagonism of knitting and needlework. The public attention expands from glossy celebrity news to the... Read more

The exhibition “A new hook. Rethinking Needlework” sets out to explore current responses to the notion of craft, in particular needlework, in order to examine its impact in the discourse of art, design, architecture and everyday life. The return of materiality and processes in contemporary art and design, rediscovering potential in both traditional and innovative materials and techniques, go hand in hand with the current protagonism of knitting and needlework. The public attention expands from glossy celebrity news to the realm of academic and museum discourses, from artistic statements to craft activism, where making things is understood as form of self-sufficience, political statement and community building.

The show brings together rellevant work from a national and international scene, keeping a balance between consolidated players and emerging talents. Pioneering works will be part of the selection, enriching the discourse around historical pieces, when exposed to new readings by home and guest curators. Fostering aspects of participation and interaction, the exhibition will comission site-specific work by guest artists and will also integrate internet platforms in order to involve virtual communities as well. A new Hook will create a stimulating discourse for a wider audience, challenging preconceptions and disseminating leading positions in a multidisciplinary approach to contemporary craft-based practices.