Jungmitglied

Alix Arto

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Wool Library
Kunde: AlpTextyles
Rechte: Alix Arto, Emma Casella, Nina Conrad, Fibershed DACH and AlpTextyles
Zeitraum: 2025 - 2025

This pilot initiative presents a curated collection of wool samples from native sheep breeds across the Alpine region, not only documenting their fibre characteristics scientifically, but also exploring their potential through hands-on processing. We experimented with spinning, knitting, weaving, and felting techniques to better understand how each type of wool behaves. The aim was to make visible the unique properties of different breeds and to spark conversation within the textile industry, encouraging a broader appreciation of wool in all its forms, not just the finest grades. We worked with six Alpine sheep breeds: Engadin Sheep from Switzerland, South German Merino, Merino d’Arles from France, Montafon Stone Sheep from Austria, Bergamasca Sheep from Italy, and Carinthian Spectacled Sheep from Slovenia. Each breed is represented through raw fibre samples, yarns spun using different techniques, and swatches showcasing a range of textile applications. Each sample is accompanied by a card featuring both a narrative introduction and scientific data. This pilot lays the groundwork for a larger vision: the Swiss Wool Library, a long-term resource for research, education, and innovation around regional wool. By connecting science, craft, and design, we hope to reframe how we value and use this versatile natural fibre. The pilot was developped between January and June 2025 and was first introduced to the public at Milano Unica (Italy) in July and presented in Škofja Loka & Nova Gorica (Slovenia), Textiel Lab in Lyon (France) and Tangible Festival in Marseille (France). With Emma Casella, Nina Conrad, Fibershed DACH and AlpTextyles
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Alix Arto

Curriculum Vitae
Alix Arto is a multidisciplinary designer established between Vevey, Switzerland and Marseille, France. In addition to her collaboration with international manufacturers, galleries and museums, she is developing sustainable and innovative projects through residencies and hands-on material investigations. Challenging the constraints of materials and production processes, collaborating closely with artisans and industries, finding particularities in their savoir-faire and translate them into a collaborative project is central in her approach.