Citrus Garden - clay (2023) Textile Art by Youyou Li

Fabric Material: cotton

tech: Nature dye (Amur Corktree Bark. ，Giant Knotweed Root， locust flower ), Nature dye flock (Amur Corktree Bark. ，Giant Knotweed Root， locust flower ，Sappan Wood)

mordant:copper sulfate and melanterite

Amidst the rush of city life, we often lose sight of nature’s quiet beauty. My project seeks to restore that connection, weaving natural ele- ments into the fabric of everyday existence. Inspired by the textures of orange peel and other organic materials, I explore the delicate dance between humanity and the natural world. Even in the heart of urban landscapes, the presence of nature lingers, subtle yet profound.
At the core of my work lies the humble orange peel, whose spiral form became the basis for a flowing, fringed motif. Through gentle cuts and organic dyes, I sought to recreate its vibrant hues, blending texture and color on fabric. I also delved into the microscopic world hidden within the peel—its dots, lines, and marks of decay—transforming these imperfections into visual poetry.
Each piece reflects the beauty of nature's transformation, capturing the fleeting moments where organic materials react and change. As the dyes meld with the fabric, an unintentional smudging effect emerges, echoing the fluidity of time and growth. Though perfection is elusive, this work serves as a reminder that nature's touch is always present, even in the smallest details of our daily lives.