Bec Kirby (b. Blackpool, 1992) is a self-taught textile artist based in Manchester, UK. Her self-developed practice explores the transformative potential of textiles through manipulation, time-intensive making, and heritage techniques. Rooted in ecology and sustainability, her work prompts conversations about responsibility in making during this era of environmental and social fragility.

After working as an interior designer, Kirby began her personal practice in 2020 without formal training, evolving through experimentation and independent research. This self-guided process shaped a practice grounded in curiosity and persistence. Driven by a commitment to sustainability, she uses antique fabrics and dead-stock yarns, responding to what is available. She prioritises traceability, waste reduction, and low-impact materials, embedding environmental responsibility into every stage of making. Guided by an ethos of slow craft, she creates work that rewards close looking, quiet attention, and sensitivity to material nuance. 

Selected Exhibitions

2024 - HANDS - 8 Holland Street Gallery, curated by Wondering People, London (group)
2022 - In the Nicest Way Possible - Where the Light Gets In, Stockport (solo)
2022 - Tactile Interactions - Aboli Bibliot, curated by Objects & Sounds, Antwerp (group) 
2022 - Super Futures - Selfridges, Manchester (group) 

Press

2024 - The Sunday Times
2024 - The Standard
2021 - Elle Decoration

for enquiries contact bec@soosumsee.com