People / Ikumi Kawashima
I am a London-based textile designer and maker creating spatial works that explore how fabric can transform and define environments. Born in Ealing, London, to Japanese parents, I spent my childhood in the UK before moving to Japan as a teenager. I studied Textile Design at Tama Art University, where I developed an interest in Japanese traditional textile techniques. After graduating, I spent six years at a small awning manufacturer, building hands-on expertise in architectural and spatial textiles. Since returning to London, I have established an independent practice creating bespoke textile works, installations, and fabric interventions for interior and public spaces.
Quilted Rug
In Japan, it was normal to work with textiles on the floor. After moving to a small London flat sharing a bed with my friend to save money, I desperately needed space to work. Luckily I found a shared studio, but this also meant I had to juggle three part-time jobs to afford it.
I started working on the floor, which made my studio-mates worry about my comfort. Realising it wasn’t practical, I climbed onto the worktable to make my large patchwork of off-cuts and sample fabrics donated from high-end interior brands – a sustainable idea while cutting costs. People began watching me work on the table through the glass doors, sparking conversations. What began as a practical solution unexpectedly became
a performative part of my practice. I began to think about how much potential the floor has, which inspired me to make a rug from the off-cuts and samples.