June 9th, 2025Rich weave of colour and texture: SAORI exhibition returns to Clunes

Words: Eve Lamb. Images: Supplied

The Celebration of SAORI Exhibition has returned to Clunes, showcasing more than 100 works by over 30 artists from across Australia.

The exhibition launched at the Clunes Warehouse on Saturday, June 7 and is now continuing through to Sunday, June 22 offering art lovers and textiles fans a unique chance to revel in the colours, textures and forms that are part of this unique hand-weaving method.

A celebration of texture, fibre and colour, along with the SAORI method of weaving itself, the exhibition showcases the work of over 30 artists from across Australia.

Co-ordinated and curated by accredited local SAORI teacher, Clunes’ Prue Simmons (pictured above) of Dyeing To Weave studio, the exhibition brings together students from across Australia who are supported through her studio weaving programs.

Showcasing more than 100 woven artworks, it is the largest SAORI weaving exhibition ever held in Australia.

Visitors can explore this expressive, niche art form, meet the artists, and even try SAORI weaving themselves.

Many of the distinctive works, ranging from garments to home décor, will be available for purchase, offering original pieces to art lovers and creative inspiration for fellow textile artists alike.

SAORI is a freestyle weaving style which originated in Japan during the 1960’s. A modern take on traditional weaving, it celebrates self-expression, mindfulness, and innovation over rules or repetition.

Often described as “weaving meditation,” it encourages intuitive creativity, where artists use texture, colour, and freestyle techniques to create truly one-of-a-kind pieces.

Celebration of SAORI Exhibition is open from Saturday 7th to Sunday 22nd June 2025. Open daily (closed Tuesdays) from 10am to 4pm.

The exhibition is being held in the Esmond Gallery (upstairs/lift available) at The Warehouse – 36 Fraser Street Clunes, Victoria 3370