The Central Museum of Textiles in Łódź, Poland, has unveiled its 18th International Triennial of Textile (ITT), extending a powerful global invitation to artists to deconstruct and reconstruct societal paradigms through the intricate language of textile art.
Marking exactly 50 years since its inaugural international event, the 2025 edition represents a critical juncture in the museum’s legendary history. The Triennial has long been recognised as one of the world’s most prestigious platforms for textile arts, consistently pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and social commentary.
The curators Marta Kowalewska and Bukola Oyebode-Westerhuis have crafted a deeply philosophical framework that transforms the exhibition from a mere art showcase into a profound socio-political discourse. Their theme, “Deconstruction/Reconstruction”, is not just an artistic concept but a radical methodology for understanding and reimagining contemporary global challenges.
•Curators Marta Kowalewska & Bukola Oyebode-Westerhuis“Deconstruction is not about destruction, but critical examination,” explains Oyebode-Westerhuis. “We’re inviting artists to dismantle the non-inclusive systems that have long governed our societies, to question established orders, and to imagine alternative realities.”
The 18th ITT introduces a flexible submission process that accommodates diverse artistic practices:
– Artists can submit portfolios of works created within the last five years
– Single artwork submissions are still welcome
– Global participation is encouraged, with no geographical restrictions
– Comprehensive documentation requirements ensure a rigorous selection process
The Triennial offers significant incentives for participating artists:
– Top prize: Gold Medal
– Monetary award: €10,000
– Full transportation of artworks to and from the exhibition
– International exposure at a renowned cultural institution
The curators elaborate on their nuanced interpretation of the theme:
Deconstruction
– Breaking down oppressive systemic structures
– Challenging historical narratives
– Critiquing modern societal achievements
– Introducing productive disorder
– Questioning established power dynamics
Reconstruction
– Creating inclusive alternative systems
– Exploring paths of collective healing
– Reviving marginalized traditions
– Imagining progressive co-existence
– Developing non-violent societal models
– Open Call Period: 17 October 2024 – 31 January 2025
– Qualifying Submissions Announcement: 24 March 2025
– Exhibition Opening and Prize Ceremony: 18 October 2025
– Exhibition Duration: 18 October 2025 – 3 May 2026
Artists must submit:
– Current colour photograph
– Comprehensive contact information
– Professional biography (max 2000 characters)
– High-quality artwork documentation
– Conceptual descriptions for each work
The International Triennial of Textile transcends traditional artistic boundaries, positioning textile art as a critical medium for social discourse. By inviting artists to engage with complex socio-political themes, the exhibition promises to be a transformative cultural event.
Interested artists can access full details and application guidelines at:
– Website: www.cmwl.pl
– Contact Email: triennial18@cmwl.pl
– Application Languages: Polish and English
This landmark exhibition represents more than an art event—it’s a global invitation to reimagine, reconstruct, and revolutionise our understanding of societal potential through the intricate, powerful medium of textile art.
