Online Embroidery Craftivism Workshop

Join artist and craftivist Shannon Downey on Monday, June 8, for a virtual evening of embroidery at the Online Embroidery Craftivism Workshop. This online experience is presented by the Elmhurst Public Library. At McGrath Elmhurst Toyota, we appreciate the many exciting and innovative activities provided by the Elmhurst Public Library during this challenging time.

According to Betsy Greer of craftisvism.com, “Craftivism is a way of looking at life where voicing opinions through creativity makes your voice stronger, your compassion deeper and your quest for justice more infinite.” Learn about the history of craftivism from Shannon, one of the leaders of the modern craftivism movement. Shannon will teach you how to embroider in just minutes. This workshop is appropriate for adults and students in grades 9-12.

After a decade of working in the technology sector, Shannon returned to cross-stitching as a hobby, picking it up again after finding a pattern of Star Trek’s Captain Picard on Etsy. Combining crafting and activism, Shannon created a piece on gun violence that drew from her personal experience with a drive-by shooting. This led to calling on other crafters to create their own works, followed by an exhibition at an art gallery that raised $5,000 for Project Fire, an anti-violence nonprofit. Shannon is inspired by the work of Natalie Boyett, Judy Chicago, Pearl Dick, Matthew Hoffman, Shawn Smith and Francine Turk.

The Online Embroidery Craftivism Workshop will explain how craft-based activism has been used as a tool of coalition building, resistance and espionage. Register to receive the link to join this program on Zoom. A limited number of material kits will be available for curbside pickup while supplies last. Information will be provided upon registration.

Date and Time:
Monday, June 8, 2020, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Address:
Elmhurst Public Library (virtual event)

Admission:
The Online Embroidery Craftivism Workshop is free. Register online at https://bit.ly/36ZQMf6.

For More Information:
Email [email protected].