Elizabeth Gaston

Elizabeth Gaston is an Assistant Professor at Northumbria University within the Design Arts and Creative Industries. Her work bridges knit design with interdisciplinary applications across architecture, education policy, and material science. She actively collaborates with institutions like Leeds City Council, Leeds Arts University, and Cox Architecture Australia.

• PhD in Textile Design (2016)
• Chartered Fellowship of the Textile Institute (2024)
• Public Engagement with Research Award (2018)

Her research spans three interconnected areas:

• Individual Colour Innovation: Explores color and light interactions to disrupt pattern perception, focusing on sustainable alternatives for textile coloration through optical mixing and lighting techniques.
• Collaborative Material Innovation: Applies knit as a flexible, tension-responsive system in architecture, utilizing formability and material properties for shade solutions and structural designs.
• Multi-agency Societal Innovation: Drives educational policy reform through craft-based workshops, partnering with organizations like the Crafts Council to address creative education gaps in UK schools.

Her recent publications emphasize interdisciplinary methodologies, integrating digital technologies with traditional craft practices. Key themes include sustainability, material behavior, and community engagement.

Scientific awards highlight her contributions to textile research and education:

• Chartered Fellowship of the Textile Institute (2024)
• Public Engagement with Research (2018)
• Textile Society Professional Development Award (2021)