Red Earth Ecology artist Jo Roberts facilitated a highly enjoyable five-week weaving circle for 16 local women at Griffith Regional Art Gallery during September and October
‘It was a great chance to try a new medium, to socialise and learn while exploring and expanding our creativity,” said Ms Roberts.
“I always seem to learn as much from the participants as they do from me.”
The group progressed from beginners stitches and then to more complex weaving, going on to design and develop their own projects over the weeks.
A wonderful variety of styles emerged, leading to some truly beautiful finished works.
“The crafting skills held in our rural communities are a treasure trove!” enthused Jo.
“Women coming together to weave and pass on skills has been happening for thousands of years, and I feel honoured to continue the tradition.”
This weaving project created a safe and accessible place for people who identify as female to learn together, share, make connections and grow in a calm and non-judgemental environment.
“To be able to sit and weave and tell stories is so empowering and enabling,” expressed Wanda in her feedback.
“It is wonderful learning a new skill, and using your hands and brain has such a great therapeutic effect.”
The women who came together gelled quickly and the room was at times filled with lively conversation and laughter; while at other moments it was almost silent as people got into the timeless flow of crafting their work.
“This is the second year I have run this weaving course, and I added some more resources and support this time around by creating an online space for participants where I shared videos that reinforce what we were learning each week, gave links to suppliers, and more info for people to go further with their weaving if they wished,” reflected Jo.
“I am grateful to have the chance to share a skill and an art form that I love, and simultaneously practice my facilitation skills.”
Thank you to Griffith Regional Art Gallery for their in-kind support through providing a venue, and also to the wonderful, accommodating people who work there.
This weaving opportunity occurred thanks to support from Western Riverina Arts and Create NSW, through funding from the NSW Government via the Country Art Support Program.