History has shown a progressive shift from natural dyes derived from organic compounds to the complex chemically focused dyes found in most textiles today. Dangerous dyeing processes have led to the deterioration of our environment in the 21st century. It is my understanding as a textile designer working across the disciplines of biology and design, that ‘living’ systems found in nature can revive sustainable dyeing practices. Extracted from the New Zealand landscape, pigment-producing microorganisms are applied to knitted textiles establishing a dialogue of colour, revealing the importance of protecting and preserving these biodiverse ecosystems for the future.
