This work uses Computer Aided Design (CAD) to create contemporary textile designs inspired by a particular culture, that of Nubia before the mass relocation of the 1960s, while maintaining the rich symbolic meanings of its motifs. It centres on methods for exploring cultural loss and recovery and uses theoretical and practice-based investigation, including interviews and fieldwork, to try to understand the way of life, beliefs, and experiences which informed the woven-created art of the Nubian people before their emigration. It analyses general characteristics of Nubian drawing, focusing on the palm tree motif and its uses and meanings in Nubian visual culture, and specific characteristics of three forms of the palm tree motif selected for experimentation. The thesis discusses the practical work and the advantages of CAD, both in flexibility of use and quality of designs produced. The result of the practical work was a collection of wall hangings, grouped into three types with different methods of interpretation within each. These were exhibited to groups of Nubians and non-Nubians who were invited to respond to a questionnaire. Through analysis of the responses to the questionnaire and supplementary interviews, the thesis discusses the most important elements in the preservation or loss of Nubian characteristics. It argues that most of the designs might be considered modern interpretations which bear, however, a Nubian signature. This work demonstrates innovative ways of retaining elements of Nubian visual culture within the Postmodern era and of educating new generations of Nubians about their heritage, thus encouraging its preservation. Unusually, this research brings together anthropological research and art, the object being to combine elements of cultural study and theory, anthropological fieldwork, visual and creative work, and interactive audience research to produce a creative space where Nubian art and culture can be appreciated, preserved and developed.