WEAVE is a textile arts project intertwining two distinct elements, story and fibre. The process of weaving and many textile arts, helps us to slow our mind and body and enjoy the rhythm and pattern of repetitive motion, integrating logic and intuition, thinking and feeling, all combined in a reflective therapeutic process not unlike meditation.
A CCD textile arts project creating opportunities for social and community discussion, social interaction and skill development , with the common thread of engagement and participation in a creative process.
The aims of the Weave project included –
- Bring a sense of belonging to the local community.
- Establishing social identity.
- Self-Expression.
- Sense of pride and achievement.
- Cultural understanding
- Skill learning.
- Establish new community partnerships
The project included 8 weeks of workshops each 2 ½ hrs, with a specific theme and activity, included practical demonstrations and the opportunity for participants to try for themselves. All resources were supplied, including instructions, which were kept by all participants.
During each workshop I took each person through the weaving process which metaphorically became the vessel for their emotions and feelings, community and cultural stories and whisperings of secrets only for them to acknowledge. All narratives now intertwined in the tapestry of connection.
A Textile Arts installation located inside Clarinda Community Centre, visible and accessible for all. Mirroring back to community its visions and messages, WEAVE seeks to strengthen cultural connections and collaborations. This creative process facilitated pride, ownership and a sense of belonging to a new community whilst recognising the traditional crafts of past cultures.
Unexpected Outcomes
- One facilitator used the workshop experience as a pilot for her own arts grant application. We reflected on her facilitation model, and grants application, which she was successful in the 2014 round.
- One group connected through their desire to learn more quilting and continue meeting weekly.
- You couldn’t wipe the smile off the quilting facilitator. She had never had the opportunity to show-off her work publically nor lead a group activity. Her sense of pride and achievement was just gorgeous.
The WEAVE Project was presented at the International Arts and Wellbeing Conference, NGV, November.2014
And as a case study for the Victorian Virtual libraries creative spaces toolkit, 2014.
