Crafting communities; How creative textiles can be used as a platform to develop meaningful communication and foster wellbeing.

Abstract

Creative textiles workshops can act as an inclusive and welcoming space for participants. Through the activity of knitting in a collective space people can feel a sense of community and safety, which can be utilised to foster wellbeing and social cohesion. Knitting and other fibre crafts have qualities of domesticity, protection, and comfort which imbed the space with a welcoming and nurturing atmosphere to allow people to feel safe and supported. The soft familiarity of textiles is universal, offering both physical comfort and emotional support. The domesticity of textile crafts engenders a sense of calm, security and belonging which is imbued onto the creative space. 

See full presentation here

Artist Biography

Sams’ arts practice has three distinct strands; fine artist, academic lecturer, and arts educator. As an artist their practice is within constructed textiles, creating narrative pieces on themes of society and environment, with an emphasis on sustainable materials. The work focuses on textile-based narratives inspired by real life events which have an emphasis on subjects including environmental pollution, human effects on natural habitats, home and belonging, and life on the fringes of society. The works take the form of both 2D collages and tapestries and 3D soft sculptures and interactive installations.