Kaffe Fassett: A Life in Colour

The Kaffe Fassett Exhibition at the Fashion and Textile Museum, London is a 'must visit' for unique and exciting colour inspiration. From the beautiful mosaic pot in the entrance hallway to the huge quilted, stitched and knitted wall hangings, the designs have been dramatically displayed by curator, Sue Timney.

Image from FTM website

Mosaic pot and quilts displayed at the Kaffe Fassett Exhibition
Image from FTM Website

Many visitors know Kaffe Fassett's work really well and will have already read his autobiography, Dreaming in Colour. He was interviewed at the V&A Museum in December, giving a fascinating overview of his career (posted on this blog). This current exhibition at the FTM brings together many of his knitted, quilted and stitched highlights with lots of background information too.

Close up of Kaffe Fassett designed knitted shawl
Photo by Emma Vining

Kaffe Fassett Embellished Knitting
Photo by Emma Vining

My favourite part of the exhibition is the wall of samples labelled 'Please Touch'. Covered in fabric and knit samples, visitors are invited to feel the yarns and fabrics and best of all, turn them over to see the reverse side!

Fabric and Knit Sample Wall
Photo by Emma Vining

Another excellent feature of the exhibition was the 'live quilting' demonstration. As I chatted to the lovely volunteer demonstrating, she talked enthusiastically about her quilt, which was a beautiful combination of colour and pattern. What an inspirational spot to sit and quilt.

Upstairs, knitted garments are hung along the walls and this is a great opportunity to get up close to see the complex patterns and colours.

Display of Kaffe Fassett Knitted Garments
Photo by Emma Vining

Display of Kaffe Fassett Knitted Garments
Photo by Emma Vining

I thoroughly recommend a visit to this wonderful exhibition. There is so much to look at. The  background on Kaffe Fassett's career is fascinating to read and there are some very interesting videos on colour inspiration to view. I am already looking forward to having another look when I return to the FTM in June for the Knitwear Study Day.