THREADS OF TIME: KNIT FORWARD, IN REVERSE 2024
Threads of Time: Knit Forward, In Reverse (2024), with Nga Wun (Doris) Li, video still
Threads of Time: Knit Forward, In Reverse, is a digital video artwork created using generative artificial intelligence, based on a machine-knitted recreation of an original Myra Mogg sweater from the Powerhouse Museum collection. The work is an outcome of the Powerhouse Museum 2024 Research Scholars Program. Exhibited in SUSFUTURE 'Tradition to Future - A Journey of Sustainable Fashion' International Design Exhibition from 3rd to 23rd June, 2024 at The Jardin × IEGO ART, Taipei and Art Gallery (5F), Design College, Hsing Wu University, New Taipei. Kunstmatrix
Knit Forward: Threads of Time
Fashion design faces transformative challenges with the coming of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI). Simultaneously, advances in seamless knitting technology are revolutionising the knitting industry, foregrounding sustainable practices through higher productivity and broader capabilities. Despite concerns about the potential displacement of young designers by machines, there is a lack of studies exploring the synergy between traditional knitting craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology: the role of generative AI in conjunction with knitwear designers remains underexplored. This creative practice research project asks: how can generative artificial intelligence be used to design sustainable, seamless knitwear based on hand-knitted originals. Using generative artificial intelligence and cutting-edge seamless knitting technology, two seamless knitted pullovers were produced, inspired by Australian knitter Myra Mogg's award winning original 1930s hand-knitted garments held in the Powerhouse Collection.
Nga Wun (Doris) Li & Justin Harvey
Machine knitted garments:
Purple Pullover – remake of purple Myra Mogg pullover using seamless knitting
Green Pullover – redesign of green Myra Mogg pullover using generative AI and seamless knitting