YAA Projects designs architecture in dialogue and response to place, identity, climate, material and history.
Althea McNish: Colour Is Mine is a landmark retrospective exhibition held at the William Morris Gallery designed by YAA Projects. Spanning four rooms in the Grade 1 listed building, the exhibition showcased the works of Althea McNish, a pioneering textile artist who gained international acclaim for her prints which were used in all aspects of design – from clothing to interiors. The exhibition design reflects McNish’s bold use of colour, incorporating bright hues and pastels to complement her patterned prints.
The Special Gallery features custom-designed plinths and curved curtains that create soft corners within the room. The central piece in the space introduces a monumental scale, offering space to display McNish’s most significant works. The Discovery Lounge offers a more intimate experience of McNish’s work, with the vibrant colours of her painting studies for prints standing out against the room's dark tones. It also provides a contemplative space to watch Whoever Heard of a Black Artist? Britain’s Hidden Art History, a film documentary exploring McNish’s life, works, and legacy as part of the history of Britain’s artists of African and Caribbean heritage. On the upper level, the Story Lounge features a painted curved wall lined with McNish’s poster designs, celebrating her carnival-themed work and exploring the theme of performance and celebration in Caribbean culture. The Arts and Crafts Gallery hosts a contemporary reimagination of McNish’s Bachelor Girl’s Room, exploring modern diasporic living. Extending the exhibition's presence beyond its four main gallery spaces, the café’s roof structure is draped in lengths of McNish’s fabric, creating a visual connection with the gallery’s extensive gardens.
Largely constructed from simple materials like timber and fabric, which can be easily reused, the exhibition design reflects YAA Projects' commitment to sustainable design. We worked closely with fabricators to minimise waste through carefully designed elements.
Photography: © Luca Bosco & Nicola Tree
Archival Images: Courtesy of William Morris Gallery & Althea McNish Archives
in collobration with Bushra Mohamed