• August 19, 2025

Kerala-Born Designer Brings Dementia-Inspired Wearable Art to UK

SHEFFIELD, Aug 19: Amala Rajan, a Malayali fashion designer originally from Kerala and now based in the UK, is presenting her latest project “Fluid Emotions in Care”—a unique textile exhibition and workshop inspired by dementia. The showcase runs in Sheffield from 13th to 20th August.

Drawing on her experiences as a care assistant while pursuing her university studies, Rajan uses fashion as a medium for mental health advocacy. Fluid Emotions in Care translates the complex and often fragmented emotions associated with dementia into wearable art, while also inviting community interaction through an embroidery workshop. Participants can “stitch their support” into collaborative textile pieces, creating a shared narrative of resilience and compassion.

The exhibition also features personal stories from caregiving, explorations of fashion as emotional expression, and reflections on resilience—all aimed at sparking dialogue on dementia and the realities of care work.

“Hundreds of Keralites are employed in the UK’s care sector. Through this project, I hope not only to raise awareness about dementia but also to honour the daily efforts of care workers who navigate these challenges,” Rajan said.

Free and open to all generations, the exhibition especially welcomes families with loved ones affected by dementia.