textiles

The Amsterdam- and Paris-based label offers surreal and seductive fashion that merges three-dimensional sculpting techniques with traditional handiwork, all made from a mix of recycled textiles, deadstock and new sustainable materials.

Mandi holds a degree in furniture and product design, but after working in the fashion industry and later at a design firm, he became increasingly dissatisfied with the lack of genuine African-inspired interior textiles.

Bal's designs won acclaim for his deep understanding of Indian textiles and meticulous attention to detail.

Historian Frank Beattie, who has lived in Kilmarnock since 1952, suggests the tradition goes back many decades and is linked to the history of the town as a centre for locomotive manufacturing and textiles.

One way to achieve this, she believes, is ensuring all schools offer children the opportunity to study creative subjects at school, such as music, textiles and drama.