Contemporary Textiles by Lauren C Naylor
Bio & Exhibitions
Hello, I’m Lauren, a contemporary textiles artist based in Sheffield. I hold a BA in Fashion and Textiles and a Master’s in Accessories Design, both of which have helped shape my artistic journey. Beyond my studies, I’ve worked as a creative educator for vulnerable adults, which has deepened my understanding of the power of art to foster inclusivity and empowerment.
As an artist, I focus on the calming practice of slow stitching. I create without machines, using hand-stitching techniques that reflect my commitment to mindfulness and mental health. I’m passionate about colour and traditional crafts, often drawing inspiration from the vibrant cultures of Africa, India, and Mexico. My work incorporates not only their rich visual landscapes but also traditional embroidery techniques passed down through generations, connecting my art to my heritage.
In my pieces, I use various textile techniques, including hand-dyeing, screen printing, applique, batik, hand-embroidery, and beading. I’m fascinated by the hidden beauty of the microscopic world and the abstract forms found in nature, which often inspire my work.
At the same time, my art is deeply rooted in environmental values. I advocate for sustainability, using reclaimed materials whenever I can. My pieces carry an environmental message, celebrating nature's unseen beauty and urging us to protect our planet. In light of current ecological challenges, my work is a reminder to cherish and preserve the beauty of our world before it’s lost.
I hope my artwork inspires viewers to take action, encouraging reflection on the fragility of our planet, the vulnerability of humanity, and the importance of protecting what truly matters.
Thank you for visiting my site. I’m open to collaborations and commissions, which offer exciting opportunities to explore new creative directions.
Please feel free to reach out with any inquiries.
Exhibitions:
2025 'Stitched Stories' 07/07-12/07
An intimate group exhibition showcasing contemporary textiles crafted by individuals united by their love for making, creativity, and friendship—brought together through the connections their art fosters. Each maker shares a unique story through their work.
The Open Gallery, Nether Edge, Sheffield
2025 'Reflections' 24/03-29/03
The annual group exhibition by Art Through Textiles presents a collection of contemporary textile works, each offering a personal interpretation of the theme Reflections.
Dronfield Hall Barn, Dronfield
2025 'Contemporary Textiles' 15/03-06/03
A group exhibition showcasing the brilliance of contemporary textiles by artists based in the UK.
The Fronteer Art Gallery, Sheffield
2025 '24th Open'
A virtual reality group exhibition showcasing contemporary artwork by mixed media artists.
Circular Artspace, Bristol
2024 'The Fronteer Open 2024'
Art Prize and group exhibition
The Fronteer Art Gallery, Sheffield
2024 'Flora'
The Flora exhibition showcases a captivating collection of works celebrating the beauty and diversity of plant life.
It features a range of mixed media including textiles, photography, sculpture and oil paintings. The exhibition highlights the enduring fascination artists have with the natural world, offering a fresh perspective on the timeless subject of flora.
The Open Gallery, Halifax
2024 'Signs of Spring'
A group exhibition showcasing contemporary artwork from around the country, it is a curated show of mixed media with the theme of spring and the emotions associated with it.
The Kreiva Art Gallery, Bridlington
2024 'Meet the Locals'
A group based exhibition celebrating the local artists of Sheffield and South Yorkshire.
The Fronteer Art Gallery, Sheffield
2023 'The Fronteer Open 2023'
'People's Choice' runner up
Art Prize and group exhibition
The Fronteer Art Gallery, Sheffield
2023 'Urban Jungle'
A group exhibition featuring over 45 UK based artists, all looking at urban environments
The Fronteer Art Gallery, Sheffield
2023 'Ruby'
The Art Through Textiles Group, 40th anniversary.
A group exhibition featuring contemporary textiles.
The Art Room, Barlow
2022 'A Sense Of Space'
The Art Through Textiles Group.
A group exhibition featuring contemporary 2D/3D textiles.
The Art Room, Barlow
