How do artists use fabric to critique extractive economies?
Artists around the world are increasingly turning to fabric as a medium to critique extractive economies, which exploit natural resources and labor for profit. Through textile art, installations, and wearable pieces, they expose the environmental and social costs of industries like mining, oil, and fast fashion. By repurposing discarded materials or using sustainable fibers, these creators challenge wasteful consumption and highlight alternatives. For example, some artists stitch maps of deforested lands onto reclaimed fabric, while others craft garments from recycled plastics to comment on pollution. Their work not only raises awareness but also fosters dialogue about equitable and regenerative systems. Fabric, with its tactile and cultural resonance, becomes a powerful tool for storytelling and resistance, bridging art and activism in the fight for a just future.
