Inspired by the work of Jeffrey Gibson in the exhibition Time Carriers on view at Esker Foundation, 28 September- 20 December 2019.

What does visual sovereignty look like? Discover the healing therapy of indigenous embroidery and develop your personal marks of resistance. In this gather and make workshop we will repurpose either a tee-shirt or garment that participants bring from home into an embellished celebration of visual sovereignty telling your unique story. Practicing Poo’miikapii in a supportive women’s circle we will stitch your unique visual vocabulary. Our goal is to use indigenous designs and color combinations in a variety of threads, glass beads, ribbons and fabrics to embellish garments using traditional embroidery and applique techniques.

Participants are encouraged to bring memory objects from home such as old lace, buttons, seashells and dried plant fibers. Also bring a cotton t-shirt or stretch of fabric. No prior sewing or hand embroidery skills are needed, as we will be using basic hand stitches. A variety of samples on garments, patches for jackets, bandolier bags and pouches will be provided for inspiration.

Carola Jones (Algonquin Deer Clan, North Carolina Toisnot Tuscarora, SC Edisto/Gullah, Florida Seminole) is an art, design and technology teacher and artist, writer, visual storyteller and Pow Wow dance with a passion for modern quilting. Her work explores concepts of place and memory by sharing stories and traditions associated with the textiles of her people connected to the black sandy soil made famous by fluke cured tobacco, indigo and cotton. For more information visit: https://www.indigofibershed.com/

https://otahpiaakifashionweek.com/