Photographs Jaron James
Facets in Resonance is a textile art installation by Kamilah Ahmed on display in a hidden historical gem in the heart of London . Kamilah is a British Bangladeshi textile artist based in London who was commissioned to create a piece for The Arab Hall: Past and Present which celebrates 100 years of exhibitions in Leighton House.
Her piece is inspired by the surroundings of the Arab Hall – one part of the home and studio of Victorian artist Lord Frederic Leighton (1830 – 1896). Leighton was one of the most famous British sculptors and painters of the Victorian era and was a contemporary of William Morris.
Leighton’s home embodied how an artist should live. Every inch was beautifully designed and filled with wonders from his travels and exquisite craftsmanship. When he died much of the work was sold off but in 1900 the house was run as a museum thanks to Leighton’s insightful neighbour and biographer Emilie Barrington. In 1927 the house was transferred to The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. Over the years pieces have been acquired to return and build the collection. The Arab Hall is now 100 years old and to commemorate this a series of work was commissioned including Kamilah Ahmed’s piece.
Kamilah’s seemingly floating textile arch was constructed by Jamdani weaving, which combines embroidery and weaving on the loom. Silk and cotton threads shimmer in the light and hundreds of laser cut elements and peacock eyes both standout and blend in with the antique tiles, mosaics and marble of the space.
Since my art school days in the 90s, I’ve visited over 100 spaces, galleries and museums in London, but I didn’t know about Leighton House and thank goodness I was told about it. If you are a fan of textile art you’ll be used to travelling to see one or two pieces, the beauty of this artwork is not only do you see an incredible piece of contemporary textile art, you can also visit the house and if you like William Morris, you will like this – it is a must see. There is also a lovely café with a large garden. Considering it is meters from Kensington High Street it is an oasis of calm and inspiration. A hidden London treasure in plain sight.
Facets in Resonance is on show until July 29th. It is included in admission price to Leighton House.
For more information about Leighton House visit https://www.rbkc.gov.uk/museums/ or @leightonsambournemuseums
To discover more about Kamilah Ahmed visit https://www.kamilahahmed.studio or @kamilahahmed.studio
