In April 2025, Prague-based designer Barbara Rakovská joined FarmLab for a residency exploring the intersection of folk heritage, material innovation, and biodesign.

Barbara’s project, Amber Grain Embroidery, draws from ancestral textile traditions while pushing the boundaries of what embroidery can be. Using a root-based biomaterial she developed during her Fabricademy studies, she created delicate, sculptural patterns that echo both the structure of grains and the language of traditional craft.

During her time at FarmLab, Barbara also deepened her exploration of natural dyes, working with plant-based color and experimenting with indigo vats as part of her material palette. This research reinforced the project’s connection to slow, regenerative practices rooted in the land.

After the residency, Amber Grain Embroidery continued its journey, becoming part of a fashion show presented at Zlín Design Week, expanding the reach of her rooted yet visionary practice.

The project was presented as part of the Land Matter/s exhibition on April 26, 2025 and has been possible thanks to a grant from Culture Moves Europe.

Photo credits: Barbara Rakovská