Kingston University's School of Art's Fashion Promotion and Communication third-year students will be presenting a free, immersive exhibition at the Townhouse on Penrhyn Road from Tuesday, 15 April – Friday, 18 April.

The exhibition will be open from 10am – 5.30pm on these days.

Calico: Woven Metamorphosis explores the profound historical and cultural significance of calico fabric and is open to the public.

Calico, a fabric that is simultaneously raw and refined, holds a unique place in textile history.

Recognised for its sustainable and eco-friendly properties, calico has played a pivotal role in global fashion and trade.

This exhibition traces its evolution, from a symbol of luxury to a material of labour, shedding light on its radical transformations throughout history.

Calico: Woven Metamorphosis is structured around three key phases: Raw, Transformation, and Form.

Originating in India, calico became a cornerstone of global trade, sparking economic shifts, inciting colonial conflicts, and influencing the fashion industry for centuries.

Today, it continues to be an essential medium for experimentation and innovation among contemporary designers.

The exhibition will feature the work of MA Fashion students at Kingston University, who have explored the integration of calico into modern design.

Through a critical lens, the exhibition examines calico's role as an agent of change in the fashion industry, highlighting its versatility, artistry, and continued relevance in sustainable discourse.