Artists under Lockdown / Sophie Rowley
A New Zealand textile designer at home in Berlin.
By TDE Editorial Team / 23rd April 2020
Sophie Rowley
COURTESY: Sophie Rowley
The Design Edit (TDE): How are you keeping busy in self-isolation?
Sophie Rowley (SR): I am working on ideas – it is good to have time to focus. Fortunately, I am able to split my time in Berlin between working from home and days in my studio. I have finished some pieces to be shown at Side Gallery in Barcelona, textile pieces, working on different designs and patterns.
Sophie Rowley, ‘Khadi Fray No. 17/18’, 2020
COURTESY: Sophie Rowley
TDE: Everyone’s pace of life has slowed down considerably; what is the impact of this new rhythm on your work and home life?
SR: I think it is a good time to reconnect, to think through what one is doing and why – at a slower pace. I have been on the phone a lot – but, basically, it has been fine for me.
Sophie Rowley
COURTESY: Sophie Rowley
TDE: Do you have a favourite self-isolation recipe to share with us?
SR: I made some home-made muesli from a recipe of my mother. I have never done this before. With fresh milk, it reminds me of my family.
Sophie Rowley, ‘Khadi Fray No. 11/12’, 2019
COURTESY: Sophie Rowley
TDE: What is saving your sanity under lockdown?
SR: Perhaps it is cooking. That is quite relaxing for me. I cannot go out to restaurants, so I have recently spent more time in the supermarket choosing ingredients and then cooking.
Sophie Rowley, ‘Khadi Fray No. 16’, 2020
COURTESY: Sophie Rowley
TDE: Which online exhibition/gallery viewing room, or other internet offerings have caught your eye?
SR: In fact I decided not to go on Instagram too much. You can waste a lot of time there. So I have tried deliberately not to use these common platforms.
Sophie Rowley – practises material based design and consulting for industries ranging from fashion, textiles, product and installation. She is taking part in Common Thread at the New Art Centre, Roche Court.
Side gallery – presents Latin American design masters & international contemporary design.
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