The Hidden Potential of Textiles: How Do They Heal and Reveal Traumas?

The present study aims to investigate the relationship with textiles that could both heal and reveal trauma. The theoretical framework is supported by the author's photography in various museums, exhibitions, and cities. The present paper is based on three dimensions: First, the making practices that emerged for the treatment of communities and trauma victims are discussed in detail. Second, the ability of clothing to trigger trauma due to the negative memories of the wearer is addressed. Finally, the artistic utilization of textiles in artworks that reflect traumatic social events is presented as memory-reminder tools. Based on these three dimensions, it was determined that textile objects are not mere objects but also actors that affect and transform our lives. Textiles are agents that could surface emotions such as anger, sadness, and joy.