Claire Barber

Claire Barber is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Huddersfield's Department of Design and Architecture within the School of Arts and Humanities. She is affiliated with three research centers: Centre for Cultural Ecologies in Art, Design and Architecture; Centre for History, Culture and Memory; and Centre for Experimental Practices (CXP). Barber joined the university in 2009 and supervises PhD students in textile-related research.

• Doctor of Philosophy by Publication (2016)
• 62 Group of Textile Artists member
• ORCID: 0000-0002-1602-3501

Her practice-based research explores textile art through site-specific installations, archival investigations, and community collaborations. Key themes include transmigration narratives, humanitarian craft, and the intersection of textiles with sound art. Barber's work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals for sustainable cities and reduced inequalities.

Recent creative outputs include collaborations with sound artist Gavin Osborn (2021-present), community projects on Barlby Road/Selby (2022-2025), and co-editorship of Humanitarian Handicrafts: Histories of Textiles, Aid and Development (MUP 2023). Her 2017 Hull Paragon Station commission The Train Track and the Basket exemplifies textile engagement with migration histories.

Scientific Contributions:

• Member of 62 Group of Textile Artists
• Developed textile-sound interplay methodologies
• Recipient of 2016 PhD by Publication recognition

Claire's research outputs total 84, including 100% Arts & Humanities fingerprint with expertise in textiles, community engagement, and cultural ecologies. She has organized 18 invited talks, 45 activities, and 6 book/media contributions since 2001, including the 2025 Research in Conversation series.