Melissa Jo Smith & Rebecca Cole - Illuminated Arts

Make a Historical Pocket with Illuminated Arts

9th September - Cherry Garden Hall - Bermondsey, London SE1

1 Additional Date - To be confirmed

Discover the art of creating a timeless tie-on pocket in this inspiring all-day workshop exploring the fascinating history of women’s pockets - symbolic of autonomy and empowerment throughout English history. As you stitch and share creative ideas, hear the fascinating stories of how these practical garments echo powerful themes of women’s independence.

Your Illuminated Arts hosts are textile-artist-historian Melissa Jo Smith and internationally recognised textile designer Rebecca Cole. They will guide you through each stage - ending with a personalised pocket to cherish.

This full day workshop includes a wholesome lunch, fresh juices and a glass of wine.

The day will begin by delving into a sumptuous spread of luxurious fabrics, colourful embroidery threads, beads, and trimmings. You'll enjoy the process of designing your own pocket, inspired by colour, history or a personal story and explore different decorative textile and stitch techniques. 

In the afternoon, you will complete the decorative embellishments for your pocket - then build your fully lined pocket, with a beautiful waist-tie.

A portion of every ticket sold directly supports Illuminated Arts current project to provide workshops for people with memory loss, Alzheimer’s, and dementia, culminating in a community catwalk show at The Queen's House in Greenwich and an exhibition of pockets.

All materials are supplied.

Join us and carry home a piece of history - stitched with your own story

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