Lacquer
Plant dye
Echo Yu trained at Hubei Institute of Fine Arts and later became an inheritor of the intangible cultural heritage of lacquer craftsmanship. With years of experience in natural lacquer and botanical dye, her practice is grounded in handwork and a close understanding of materials.
Working primarily with dark, tonal colours, she explores how materials absorb dye, reflect light and change through use. Lacquer and botanical dye are selected according to each piece, allowing uneven surfaces, traces of making and natural wear to remain visible.
Her work extends from handmade objects and textiles to the transformation of vintage clothing. Origin brings together objects made by her own hands. Black Rework begins with 1990s and 2000s vintage black T-shirts and vintage Levi’s 501, 505 and 517 jeans. Existing fading, abrasions and softened fibres become part of the work, carrying the history of each garment into its next form.