What's Happening?
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is set to present 'Textile Alchemy: The Art of Reiko Sudō & NUNO,' an exhibition opening on September 20, 2026, and running until March 7, 2027, in the Resnick Pavilion. This comprehensive survey highlights
the work of acclaimed Japanese designer Reiko Sudō and her textile collective, NUNO, known for pioneering innovative textiles over four decades. The exhibition will feature over 100 limited-edition textiles, drawings, sketches, raw materials, tools, and prototypes, many from LACMA's collection. Sudō's work is already integrated into LACMA's architecture, as she designed the custom chrome-sputtered curtains for the museum's David Geffen Galleries. The exhibition will also include a recreation of the original 1984 NUNO shop, which will function as a LACMA retail store, allowing visitors to engage with and purchase NUNO goods. The exhibition is curated by Sharon S. Takeda, senior curator, and explores Sudō and NUNO's innovative processes, technology, and sustainability initiatives.
Why It's Important?
This exhibition is significant for several reasons. It showcases the profound impact of Reiko Sudō and NUNO on contemporary textile design, bridging art, craft, technology, and sustainability. By presenting a comprehensive survey, LACMA reinforces its commitment to exhibiting diverse artistic voices and highlighting the intersection of art, architecture, and design. The inclusion of a functional retail space within the exhibition offers a unique interactive experience, allowing visitors to directly engage with the artistic output and understand the commercial aspect of design. Furthermore, the exhibition emphasizes sustainability and the reimagining of traditional textile practices, which are increasingly relevant themes in the global art and design world. LACMA's extensive collection of NUNO textiles, one of the largest globally, positions the museum as a key institution for the study and appreciation of contemporary Japanese textile art. Major annual support for LACMA exhibitions, including from Stan and Ann Kroenke, underscores the role of private philanthropy in enriching cultural institutions.
What's Next?
The 'Textile Alchemy' exhibition will run from September 20, 2026, to March 7, 2027, at LACMA's Resnick Pavilion. On the opening day, September 20, 2026, LACMA will host the ninth R.L. Shep Triennial Symposium on Textiles and Dress, featuring a conversation between Reiko Sudō and curator Sharon S. Takeda, offering deeper insights into Sudō's work and philosophy. An accompanying publication, co-published by LACMA and DelMonico Books, will feature photography and texts by various contributors, with a special deluxe edition including textile samples. These complementary programs aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of Sudō's artistic contributions and the broader context of textile design. The exhibition is expected to attract a wide audience, including art enthusiasts, design professionals, and those interested in sustainability and Japanese culture, further solidifying LACMA's reputation as a leading cultural institution.
Beyond the Headlines
The 'Textile Alchemy' exhibition delves into deeper implications beyond the aesthetic appeal of textiles. It highlights the evolving definition of art, where functional design and industrial processes merge with traditional craftsmanship. Sudō's work exemplifies how artists can transform humble materials into innovative and beautiful creations, challenging conventional notions of value and artistry. The exhibition's focus on sustainability and the reuse of materials, such as kibiso (silk cocoon by-products), underscores a critical ethical dimension in contemporary design—the responsibility to minimize waste and maximize resourcefulness. This approach not only offers practical solutions but also inspires a re-evaluation of industrial processes and consumption patterns. Culturally, the exhibition reinforces the global influence of Japanese design, showcasing its blend of tradition and innovation, and its capacity to inspire new artistic and technological frontiers in the textile industry worldwide.
