An interactive textiles-based exhibition, aimed at reducing the waste created by surgical operating theatres, is showcasing the work of third year BA (Hons) Textiles students as part of the Edinburgh Science Festival. 

Operation Biodegradable: Rethinking Surgical Environment is the result of a collaboration with the Department of Clinical Neurosciences at the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary and explores the use of regenerative biomaterials within operating theatres. It runs at the InSpace gallery from 19 to 27 April (not Tuesday 22 April).

The project was initiated by consultant neurosurgeon, Mark Hughes, who reached out to Edinburgh College of Art (ECA) to connect with people engaged in textiles and materials research. He was keen to consider new sustainable material interventions within the operating theatre and how design could have an impact on the experience of the surgeon.

The students’ research has included a visit to an operating theatre, and propositions included in the exhibition include combinations of textiles and mycelium for biodegradable packaging, interior surfaces and wearables.

Supporting the project were Lecturer in Textiles Collette Paterson and Lecturer in Soft Robotics/Physical Computing Ruby Marshall, along with alumni Beth Davidson (MA Design Informatics, 2024), and Ruta Vronevskyte (BA [Hons] Textiles, 2023). The team also included alumna Phoebe Leach (BA [Hons] Painting, 2024) who has paintings, prints and sketches of the operating theatre included in the exhibition.

In addition to the daily exhibition opening times (no need to book), there are two evening events which should be booked online: 

Tuesday 22 April 6pm to 8pm at InSpace - Material Shadows - Performance and Discussion

Friday 25 April 5pm to 7pm at InSpace - Operation Biodegradable Late Event