< Back to all entries & Profiles
User Emma profile image

Emma Gall

Heriot Watt University

I am a recent textile design graduate with a specialisation in woven textiles. My practice is rooted in a deep respect for heritage and a commitment to sustainability, focusing on how traditional knowledge can inform innovative design approaches. With a particular interest in cultural preservation through textiles, I use weaving as a medium to explore stories, identities that are at risk of disappearing. My honours project explored the vanishing vernacular culture of the Kalotaszeg region in Romania—an area rich in textile traditions that are increasingly endangered by globalised production systems. As part of the project, I looked closely at the weaving techniques, motifs, and cultural values found in Kalotaszeg’s textile traditions, combining hands-on material experimentation with contextual research. Rather than copying historic designs, I focused on identifying what aspects of these practices could still be relevant and useful today—especially in the push for more sustainable ways of working. The project aimed to connect traditional approaches with contemporary textile design, highlighting how heritage knowledge can still play a valuable role in shaping responsible, forward-thinking production. I was awarded the James Watt Scholarship from Heriot-Watt University, which fundas my PhD research in Transition Design. This phase of my academic journey allows me to deepen my investigation into how heritage textile practices—often overlooked or marginalised—can serve as vital tools in reshaping our approach to production, material sourcing, and community engagement in the textile industry. I believe my research will raise awareness of disappearing traditions and how these technologies can inform modern practice and promote research in sustainable alternatives for the textile industry.

Website

Batlle of Seasons

Category: Interior

Competitions: Home Competition 2025

This project was inspired by a Scottish folktale, The Battle of Seasons. The collection builds on the constant battle between Spring and Winter, Summer and Autumn, juxtaposing emotions, while translating Scotland's rugged landscape into texture. According to the legend, Loch Awe was formed due to the negligence of Queen Beira, who failed to guard a sacred spring—eventually giving rise to the lake. I used Loch Awe and Ben Cruachan as visual inspiration for my project to keep my narrative rooted in place and myth. This site today is home to a major power plant through the Drax Project. The Drax Group is a UK-based renewable energy company engaged in renewable power generation. I see this as a powerful layer within the story I'm telling: a place that held such significance in the past, holds the key to our sustainable future. I worked with a given palette to create new shades, by using at least two to four different yarns next to each other. This technique elevates the texture and overall outlook of the samples. My final collection consists of intricate patterns, playful colour combinations that translate the essence of the seasons, as well as my personal take on a manipulated satinette The lambswool used to create this collection was a generous donation from Knoll Yarns.

Working with our partners at Arts Thread to develop lifelong learning and career opportunities for students of fashion and design. Our partnership provides the opportunity to compete on a world stage, participate in industry led workshops, set up an outstanding portfolio and gain access to the resources that will kickstart careers in fashion and design.