Unleash your creativity and delve into the world of raffia embroidery at an upcoming workshop that promises to blend craft and culture in a unique celebration of the 75th anniversary of Windrush.
On Saturday 23rd September, Tihara Smith will be hosting a raffia embroidery hoop art workshop, with the support of Better Bankside, for the London Design Festival 2023. Designer Tihara Smith developed her raffia embroidery practice when creating her graduate Windrush Collection which was showcased at Graduate Fashion Week 2018. One of the outfits from this collection was acquired by the Museum of London in 2021.
About the Workshop
In this exciting workshop, participants will learn the basics of raffia embroidery, as well as about the different types of raffia and create a piece of tropical raffia embroidery wall art that they can hang up proudly in their home.
This hands-on experience is a gateway to creating stunning tropical wall art while learning about the rich heritage of the Windrush Generation and Caribbean craftsmanship.
Taking place on Saturday, 23rd September with the support of Better Bankside for the London Design Festival, the event is set against the vibrant backdrop of The Africa Centre, located at 66 Great Suffolk St, London SE1 0BL.
No prior experience? No problem. This workshop is tailor-made for beginners, all participants need is the enthusiasm to try something new and be willing to immerse themselves in the process of raffia embroidery, guided by the expertise of Tihara Smith. With all materials and equipment provided onsite, attendees can choose between crafting a vibrant floral hibiscus flower or a tropical monstera leaf design. Plus, the workshop offers the flexibility for participants to complete their creations at home if needed.
A Tribute to the Windrush Generation
The workshop will also celebrate the 75th anniversary of Windrush, a pivotal moment in British history when thousands of people from the Caribbean arrived in the UK to start a new life. Attendees will get the chance to learn more about the Windrush Generation, Caribbean culture, and Caribbean crafts whilst crafting their own piece of raffia embroidery.
About the Teacher: Tihara Smith
Leading this creative workshop is Tihara Smith, a fashion designer and textile artist known for her expertise in raffia embroidery. Tihara’s journey with this intricate craft began when she designed and created her Windrush-inspired graduate collection which was showcased at Graduate Fashion Week 2018. The impact of her work is evidenced by the acquisition of an outfit from the collection by the Museum of London in 2021, a testament to her dedication to preserving and sharing the Windrush story.
Registration and Information
Tickets are available for purchase here. All workshop details, including where to buy tickets can be found at tiharasmith.com.
Key Information
Date: Saturday, 23rd September
Time: 1 pm – 3 pm
Location: The Africa Centre, 66 Great Suffolk St, London SE1 0BL
Price: £10.00
Tihara Smith website: www.tiharasmith.com
