The textiles for the project were found through a Finn.no ad from a woman who collects vintage, colorful fabrics. They had all the qualities I was looking for: storytelling, cultural preservation, reuse, aesthetics, and expression.

These textile rugs carry a unique history. They represent the culture, technology, and craft traditions that we have a responsibility to preserve. The textiles can be easily integrated into the project without being damaged. They can continue to be used and, if needed, be repaired locally for future use, all while providing an exciting visual expression that clearly communicates the idea of reuse and repurposing.

It was also inspiring to meet Kirsten Opsahl and learn more about textiles, colors, techniques, and the traditions surrounding these objects.

Kirsten collects, preserves, and curates vintage hand-woven textiles at Asker Tekstil Studio. She describes it best herself:

"Woven wool tapestries are a form of textile art with long-standing traditions. These hand-woven rugs are often characterized by colorful patterns and geometric designs. They have traditionally been used for everything from decorative elements and wall hangings to functional items like tablecloths and bedspreads. The knowledge of spinning and weaving has often been passed down from generation to generation, making these tapestries an important part of our local cultural heritage and identity."

These tapestries are not just practical objects; they are carriers of cultural identity, historical heritage, and artistic expression. They help preserve traditional craft techniques and support local artisan communities.

I have previously worked on a bench for public spaces where the focus was on traceable plastic. The elements, which were made from recycled plastic, were marked with a QR code. This code gave the user information about the plastic's origin, collection methods, and history. My experience is that communicating the history of the materials provides added value and a richer experience for the user. A product's background and origin are crucial for communicating the value of traceable reuse.