Katherine Townsend

Dr. Katherine Townsend is a Professor in Fashion and Textile Practice at Nottingham Trent University's School of Art and Design. She leads the Digital Craft and Embodied Knowledge research group, focusing on methodological frameworks for designing and making. Her roles include PhD supervision, postgraduate teaching, and leadership in the School Research Committee and REF Advisory Group. She co-founded the journal Craft Research and has curated exhibitions such as Crafting Anatomies and Metallic Sound.

Education: PhD in Textile Design (2003), practice-based research exploring CAD methods and garment design. Previous roles include Course Leader for BA Textile Design and Principal Lecturer in MA Fashion.

Research Interests: Sustainable fashion, participatory design methodologies, craft-based innovation, well-being through material engagement, and heritage preservation. Notable projects include the Emotional Fit initiative with older women and the Guatemala Artisan project supporting indigenous textile practices.

Collaborations: Ixchel Museum (Guatemala), Nottingham City Museums, V&A Museum. Recent work includes AHRC-funded lace archive research and PPE redesign initiatives with healthcare workers.

Advising & Grants: Supervised 7+ PhD students in areas like e-textiles and craft therapy. Principal Investigator for UKRI-funded projects and Midlands3Cities collaborations. External examiner for multiple UK art and design institutions.

Labs/Teams: Leads the Digital Craft and Embodied Knowledge group, co-leads Clothing Sustainability and Advanced Textiles initiatives. Curates interdisciplinary exhibitions merging art, science, and design.