The works in Through the Surface are a stunning spectacle. Created on an architectural scale, they aim to push the boundaries of our understanding of textiles.

There will be works using common fabrics such as polyester, paper, wool and cotton. These are then (sometimes literally) interwoven with materials such as fishing line, electroplated zinc, reclaimed bath insulation foam, gold and silver leaf, aluminium, bamboo, tarpaulin and seaweed.

The exhibition also tells a story of cultural exchange and collaboration between Britain and Japan.

Glacier by Junichi Arai (detail). Photographer: Toshiharu Kawabe Materials: Wool, Polyester, aluminium

During 2003, seven young textile artists travelled to work with seven established artists in the opposite country.

The latter have all won major international prizes, whilst the younger artists represent outstanding talent from the new generation.

Lesley Millar, Project Director with Through The Surface said: "I have worked for years to introduce the British public to supreme works by Japanese masters and also to reveal the excellence of our leading makers to audiences in Japan.

"It's very exciting to be showing the exhibition at the Sainsbury Centre in Norwich. It will be the first time the works have all been shown together and so the impact will be tremendous," she added.

The artists partnerships ran for three months, after which all involved made new work as a result of the experience.

Twenty commissioned pieces have been created for this outstanding exhibition. Some are collaborative, as a result of the artists' time together, others show exciting, individual responses.

Through the Surface is the successor to the exhibition Textural Space which was displayed at the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts in Summer 2001.

Transition by Anniken Amundsen (detail). Photographers: Chapman/Forsyth Materials: Fishing wire

"The wonderful spaces of the Sainsbury Centre will be the perfect backdrop for this art," enthused Millar.

"Many of the works have quite an architectural influence which will be particularly highlighted in the Foster-designed galleries.

"Also, when a 15ft tall piece of textile art is being displayed, it's great to be able to give it lots of space - a real 'wow' for visitors!," she added.

Through The Space is viewed in two areas of the Sainsbury Centre, both the lower gallery and the special exhibition area.

The works in the lower gallery will be exhibited until Sunday 16 May, with the rest of Through the Surface available until Sunday 13 June.

Participating artists are: Junichi Arai and Tim Parry Williams; Machiko Agano and Anniken Amundsen; Michiko Kawarayabashi and Ealish Wilson; Teruyoshi Yoshida and Claire Barber; Maxine Bristow and Kyoko Nitta; Frances Geesin and Kaori Hosozawa and; Jeanette Appleton and Naoko Yoshimoto.

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