In this workshop, we'll explore how you can use needle and thread as a means of resistance.
We'll delve into the rich tradition of embroidery as a tool for social commentary, from Palestinian tatreez to the bold arpilleras of Chile's Pinochet regime. Learn basic and advanced embroidery stitches while exploring themes of resistance, identity, and social justice.
Embroidery, traditionally seen as a domestic craft, has a powerful history of subversion. In this workshop, we'll explore how you can use needle and thread to become a textile artist-activist! We'll delve into the rich tradition of embroidery as a tool for social commentary, from Palestinian tatreez to the bold arpilleras of Chile's Pinochet regime. Learn basic and advanced embroidery stitches while exploring themes of resistance, identity, and social justice. Bring a message you want to amplify, an image that moves you, or simply a willingness to experiment. We'll provide fabrics, threads, and inspiration to transform your voice into a vibrant, stitched embroidery piece. We particularly welcome participants from the global majority. This workshop is designed for participants aged 18+ Please note: Our workshops explore sensitive topics. While not a replacement for therapy, they provide a supportive and encouraging space to express feelings, learn, and heal together. We encourage participants to prioritise their well-being and take a moment if needed during the workshop. Follow us on Instagram for announcements on our next workshops and events.
Venue: The Create Place, 29 Old Ford Road, E2 9PJ (Plan your visit)
Time: 2-4 pm
Date: Saturday 27th July
Ticket Prices: £5
Access: If you have any access needs of which we should be aware, please let us know.
Entry to The Create Place is step-free but the toilet is not accessible. If you will need access to an accessible toilet, please let us know so we can arrange that.
DecolonArt, an artistic community, founded by mixed media artist Anika Ali, that uses creativity to decolonise the arts and empower resistance.
Through creative workshops, ranging from zine making to journaling, and a book club, DecolonArt explores forgotten voices and the rich histories of the global majority. DecolonArt seeks to be a platform for marginalised voices, a testament to the transformative potential of art, and a call to action for a more inclusive art world.
Anika is the Founder of DecolonArt, an artistic community that uses creativity to decolonise the arts and empower resistance. With her background in studying Asian History, she is keen to use DecolonArt to explore forgotten voices and the rich histories of the global majority. DecolonArt has also launched a book club celebrating and enjoying literature by authors of colour.
DecolonArt seeks to be a platform for marginalised voices, a testament to the transformative potential of art, and a call to action for a more inclusive art world.
Anika’s artistic practice is a vibrant exploration of identity, memory, and reclamation. Through journaling, zine-making, collaging, and scrapbooking, she weaves together personal narratives with broader historical threads.
Instagram: @DecolonArt