01/27/25

MODA Announces Threads of Change: Design & Data, an exhibit exploring climate and nature through textile art


The Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA) is proud to present Threads of Change: Design & Data, an exhibition showcasing textile art as a powerful medium for exploring humanity’s relationship with climate and nature. Opening February 9, 2025, Threads of Change transforms data about the natural world into visually and emotionally resonant experiences, inspiring reflection, creativity, and action.

“Textile art is uniquely suited to weaving together complex narratives,” said Laura Flusche, MODA’s Executive Director and exhibition co-curator. “By making data tangible and relatable, Threads of Change invites audiences to critically engage with their connection to the ecosystems that sustain life.”

Co-curator and exhibition designer Susan Sanders added, “This exhibition demonstrates how design and art can make complex scientific concepts accessible to everyone. The featured works not only celebrate craftsmanship but also spark meaningful conversations about climate, sustainability, and our shared responsibility to the planet.”

The exhibition features approximately 20 meticulously crafted pieces, including:

• Sandra Sawatzky’s Black Gold Tapestry: A 220-foot embroidered epic chronicling the history and consequences of oil.
• Coral Forests from the Crochet Coral Reef: Vibrant crochet installations visualizing ocean biodiversity and climate change.
• Bonnie Peterson’s Geoscience Embroideries: Climate data translated into tactile works in velvet and silk.
• Nathalie Miebach’s Data-Driven Sculptures: Intricate works expressing weather and environmental data with basket weaving techniques.
• Tempestries by the Knit Wits: Hand-knit visualizations of temperature data, turning climate records into personal works of art.
• Knitted Brains 1 & 2 by Dr. Karen Norberg: Carefully crafted models of the human brain that employ the unique properties of hand-knitting to make complex neuroscience concepts accessible and engaging.

Opening Celebration:
The exhibition kicks off with a special celebration on Saturday, February 8, 2025, featuring an exclusive first look at the art, light refreshments, and a spoken word performance by Ryan J. blending themes of nature and humanity. Free and open to the public with advance registration at MODA’s website.

Workshops:
In conjunction with the exhibition, MODA will host hands-on workshops led by local textile artists, including:

• Paper Weaving with Kimani Johnson (February 19, 2025)
• Textiles & Recycling with Sayma Hossain (March 6, 2025)
• Mapping Memories with Camisha Butler (March 27, 2025)
• Walking & Weaving Atlanta with Amanda Banks (April 26, 2025)

Workshops invite participants of all skill levels to explore sustainability and storytelling through textile art, fostering community engagement and creativity.

Exhibition Dates:
Threads of Change runs from February 9 to May 25, 2025. For more information or to register for the opening celebration and workshops, visit www.museumofdesign.org.

About MODA:
The Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA) is the Southeast’s only museum dedicated to the transformative power of design. Located in Midtown Atlanta, MODA curates exhibitions and programs that inspire creativity, reflection, and positive change.