Exhibition – Bernat Klein: Influence & Inspiration @ Borders Textile Towerhouse

Free entry – donations welcome

Serbian born designer Bernat Klein emigrated to the UK in the post-war period and based his textile manufacturing business in the Scottish Borders (1951–1992). In a career spanning six decades, Klein found international success in the interrelated spheres of fine art, fashion, textile design, architecture, industrial design and colour consultancy.

He sold couture fabrics to leading couturiers such as Chanel and Dior, gained recognition in Scandinavia and North America, and realised two important modernist buildings with architect Peter Womersley (1923–1993).

This exhibition showcases new ideas developed by contemporary practitioners whose work is contributing to the continuation of Bernat Klein and his legacy in design, visual arts, and architecture. To illustrate his influence and inspiration, new work is presented together with original examples of Klein’s design and artistic practice.

The name Bernat Klein (1922–2014) has become synonymous with twentieth-century style and flair, and to mark his centenary three interrelated exhibitions are taking place across Scotland – in Glasgow at the Studio Pavilion and House for an Art Lover – and in the Scottish Borders at Borders Textile Towerhouse.

Published in 2022, the book ‘Bernat Klein’ also provides an engaging companion for each exhibition, with its contributions from designers, curators, archivists, architects, photographers, artists, and collectors.

Designed by Graphical House in collaboration with the Bernat Klein Foundation, the exhibition is curated by Alison Harley and Shona Sinclair.