Se(w)cular Stitches: Kantha Connections

Join Rubina Singh, a textile artivist from India, for an intimate stitching circle. In this special gathering, we dive into the rich South Asian embroidery practice of Kantha. This hands-on workshop offers an opportunity to learn the intricate running stitch technique that transforms old fabrics into beautiful, layered textiles. As we stitch, we will engage in conversations about our shared colonial histories, reflecting on the complex legacies that have shaped Kenya and India. It is a space to connect through creativity and storytelling, exploring how art and memory can illuminate our collective pasts.

Materials: We encourage you to bring along old fabric, preferably a Kanga, a cloth that has symbolized the deep connection between our countries for generations through trade and anticolonial resistance. By stitching Kangas together with Kantha embroidery, we will weave connections that reflect resilience, solidarity, and shared histories. We shall provide needles, hoops, threads and some small pieces of khanga for the group to borrow.

Open to beginners and sewists of all levels, ages 16+ as the conversations might be a bit heavy.

Sign up: Free to attend, but we request those who are able to send a 500/- per person ticket fee, which will be given as a donation to a group of women’s Human Rights Defenders, learning cross stitch and needlework in informal settlements.