Changing States, single retired U.S. flag woven through nylon mesh

Benjamin Shine uses experimental textile techniques to create stunning and original works of portraiture. Shine frequently takes well-known public figures as his subjects, rendering them in a new and interesting light.

Audrey Hepburn, acrylic net fabric through eyelets on red fabric

Most recently, the artist gained some internet attention for his “paintings,” created by affixing strips of tulle fabric to a surface. I’m really fascinated by those in which a single piece of the delicate, lacy fabric is twisted so that darker bunches create the voluminous shadows of faces and figures. Shine also collaborated with the design house of Givenchy to turn his tulle works into one-of-a-kind clothing articles.

In another series, Shine creates portraits of famous figures using narrow threads and strips of fabric to form lines. Hundreds of tiny eyelets across the surface of the work determine the direction of the fabric strips, creating works that at first glance look like pencil or painted sketches. Shine’s portfolio is packed with examples of interesting media. For more innovative materials, check out Toshihiko Mitsuya.

Chloe (detail), tulle