Dilana Rugs

Dilana has had a facelift.

We were proud to be part of the 2026 , adding to Christchurch’s growing reputation as New Zealand’s street art capital.

This year’s theme Sea Signals focuses on ocean conservation, and artist captured it beautifully with flowing Pasifika patterns inspired by Tongan, Samoan and Fijian design.

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We are deeply saddened by the passing of Philip Trusttum, an extraordinary New Zealand artist.It was a privilege to spend time with Philip and experience the energy and generosity he brought to his work. His fearless use of symbols, colour and layered visual language challenged us to see design in new ways.

His legacy will live on through the beautiful language of his paintings.

Philip’s work opened a new chapter in our design journey at Dilana Rugs.
Inspired by his later series, we explored how the elements and symbolism in his paintings could be translated into textile form.
Working with the spirit of his work was both inspiring and humbling. We are grateful for the creative path it opened for us.

In Pohi #6 by Darryn George the focal point of the composition is the central section, where the koru form has been carved out and framed by loop pile. In the original artwork, this area also carries the greatest visual and symbolic weight, the point where the eye instinctively rests. To balance the rugs overall composition, the upper and lower sections were created using a cross-stitch tufting method. This technique allows colours to merge in two directions, producing a refined movement that feels controlled, layered, and alive.
The result is a statement rug that reflects Dilana’s rugmakers approach to contemporary textile design, where artist collaboration, advanced tufting techniques, and meticulous craftsmanship come together to create pieces that elevate interiors while holding lasting artistic value and enjoyment .
Click here to see Pohi #6
https://dilana.co.nz/new-products/pohi6darryn-george

When working with an artist to translate an artwork into the textile medium, it is important to avoid directly replicating the original piece. Instead, the focus should be on finding a suitable material, technique, or method of making that can carry the artist's creative idea across to its new form

In *Olive*, designed by Bridget Bidwill, the abrash dyeing method was used to reinterpret the pastel palette, allowing the colours to appear vibrant, layered, and alive. The abstracted composition creates a sense of calm, while the gentle movement of colour adds energy and depth to the textile.
See Olive here https://dilana.co.nz/new-products/olive-bridget-bidwill