Statement:
I use thread to create abstract geometric artworks that explore repetition and transition, symmetry and asymmetry, the dynamic and the stable. I draw influence from the visual world around me: architectural forms; graphic design; pattern, scale and colour combinations. Colour is the driving force behind my work. I enjoy the infinite effects of many subtle hues and tones that can be explored when blending from one colour to another.
I’m interested in the relationship between myself and the machine, hand and industry, craft and technology. The loom, and the disciplined nature of weaving as a practice, provides boundaries and constraints which can be tested. The orderly nature of the craft of weaving is reflected in the developing designs of the artworks. I am satisfied by rhythmic and uniform repetition – where each element of a composition is changed in a methodical progression.
Margo Selby
Biography
Margo studied at Chelsea College of Art & Design and the Royal College of Art in London, and at Atelier National d’Art in Paris. She was one of the original fellows of the Ann Sutton Foundation.
Margo has taught and mentored at art schools including Central St Martins, the Royal College of Art, Goldsmiths and West Dean College. She is often invited to lecture on her art practice and expertise in weaving.
Establishing her eponymous textiles company in London in 2003, Margo’s guiding principle is ‘Art Into Industry’. Alongside her art practice, she oversees the design work of her studio for industrial production, collaborating frequently with manufacturers, artisan makers and designers; the loom is at the heart of everything.
Selected Exhibitions
2022 – London Craft Week, 88 Gallery, London.
2022 – London Art Fair with Contemporary Applied Arts, London
2022 – Collect, with Design-Nation, Somerset House, London.
2021 – The Open, Turner Contemporary, Margate.
2021 – Aperture, solo show, The Corn Hall, Diss.
2021 – StArt, The Oxmarket Gallery, Chichester.
2020 – Zest, Contemporary Applied Art, London.
2020 – Tessellation, solo show, Turner Contemporary Café, Margate.
2020 – Vexillum, for UK Crafts Council, Collect, Somerset House, London.
2020 – Curriculum Room: Life in Colour, The Conservatory, New York.
2019 – The Future of Craft, London Craft Week, OXO Tower, London.
2019 – Under Your Feet, Ruthin Craft Centre, Ruthin.
2018 – Windows Into Still Lives, Contemporary Applied Art, London.
2017/2018 – Pick by Pick, solo show, Rochester Art Gallery / Huguenot Museum.
2017 – The Makery, Liberty, London.
2017 – Marks and Tools, with Design-Nation for London Craft Week, OXO Tower, London.
2015 – Campaign for Wool, Southwark Cathedral, London.
2014 – Crafted: Makers of the Exceptional, Walpole Crafted, Royal Academy, London.
2012-2014 – Beauty is the First Test, Pumphouse Gallery, London, and tour.