Banners

While studying Textiles in Practice at degree level Fern began to focus on the history of textiles as a political art form, with a focus on protest material. Her banners have been reworked to reflect contemporary movements- including the climate crisis.

While these pieces lack the intricate detail of traditional trade union banners, the reliance on simple techniques like patchwork invoke the accessibility and constant fluctuation of modern day political issues.

All of Fern's banners are made from recycled cotton, as a nod to the industrial revolution and the lives of working class people in Lancashire.

Cotton variants like denim also play a huge role in her work as they reflect the globalisation of the textile industry- nothing symbolises fast fashion like a pair of jeans!