People Profile

Karen Fleming (Reader)

A Lecturer since 1989 at the University of Ulster, Fleming leads the textile research area in Interface, Centre for Art Technologies and Design. She has been instrumental in addressing the development of textile art within fine and applied art contexts. Fleming graduated with a First Class Hons. Degree in Fashion and Textiles (1987), postgraduate Diploma Art & Design (1988) and a Master of Education (1993) from the University of Ulster. Her research has developed from a focus on stitched textile to the questioning of textile formats such as 'the quilt' and considering the use of material as metaphor and the semiotics of cloth. Ulster's textile heritage has been a key influence on many artists. Fleming's work references issues in feminism, domestic and textile labour and identity. Technical interests includes innovative and hybrid processes.

Fleming's work has been recognised in international awards including Eupopaische Quilt-Triennale, The Art of The Stitch and Threadworks, New Zealand. She is a former chair and active member of the 62 Group of Textile Artists. Recent exhibitions include Eupopaische Quilt-Trienale 2003/4, Tokyo International Quilt 2003, 1st Biennial of Textiles OBG2002, 'Fabric & Fabrications' Context Gallery and Ulster Folk & Transport Museum 2002/3, 'In Context' The Victoria & Albert Museum 2002.

Home