About PRISM

PRISM is an international exhibiting group of 65 artists who embrace a contemporary fine art approach while drawing on the rich technical traditions of fibre and stitch.

PRISM was founded in 1998 by Julia Caprara, Director and Principal of the Opus School of Textile Arts. Originally created as a showcase for the work of students and tutors, the group reflected the school’s ethos of excellence in technical skill and creative exploration. Opus was one of the UK’s leading textile art schools, offering accredited online courses to a world wide student group in textile, embroidery and mixed media, validated by Middlesex University. Julia’s vision was to nurture creativity and encourage people to discover the expressive power and emotional depth of textiles.

In 2010 after Julia’s passing, PRISM became an independent exhibiting group, run collectively by its members. The strong academic and creative foundation established through Opus ensured a high standard of professional practice among PRISM’s founding members. A regular programme of exhibitions was developed, providing a dynamic forum for the exchange of ideas and concepts within the wider field of the applied arts. 

As PRISM’s reputation grew, so too did interest from the wider artistic community. In recognition of the evolving diversity and innovation within textile practice, membership was opened to professional textile artists worldwide. This expansion brought new perspectives, techniques and ideas, transforming PRISM into a vibrant, international collective dedicated to pushing the boundaries of textile art.

Today, PRISM enjoys a well-established international reputation. Textile artists can apply for membership biennially and are selected by a committee guided by key directives, with innovation and originality among the most important. Members meet regularly online and in person to exchange ideas, share expertise and plan proposals for future exhibitions.

In recent years, The Art Pavilion, Mile End, London, has hosted PRISM’s annual exhibition, a joyful ten-day celebration of textile art featuring member gatherings, artist talks, and a range of open workshops led by exhibiting artists.