Jamie Holman

Machine Made Fabric

A revolutionary process for the extrusion of molten plastic into mesh structures was invented by Brian Mercer in Blackburn in the 1960s. Branded as Netlon, it was sold worldwide and further development resulted in the invention of Tensar, a plastic grid as strong as steel which is widely used within civil engineering and still manufactured in the town.

Inspired by this futuristic inventiveness, artist Jamie Holman worked with young people at Blackburn Youth Zone to create a film which is presented on the state-of-the-art screen built into the new extension of the building, The Fusebox. The film invites viewers into a dreamlike, immersive space where history, technology, and creativity converge.

(This exhibition will be closed on Saturday 10th & Thursday 16th October)