On 16th November we launched our #craftvism2020 challenge to celebrate women activists in East London.
We’ve been doing craftivism events regularly since 2016, working with the public to create over five metres of bunting that commemorates equality, diversity and women’s history more broadly. The aim was to keep building on the bunting this year, but due to the pandemic we had to take a slightly different approach to normal. It was too risky to meet in person, so instead we created craftivism packs, which have been distributed across the community.
In total 60 packs were sent out. Forty went out via local food banks, and 20 were sent to directly to participants on request. The packs included threads, needles, fabrics and all sorts of other crafting goodies. The task set was to create a flag for our bunting using the women in our online exhibition as inspiration. The results have been fantastic.
So far we have had contributions from young and old, sewing commemorations from Spare Rib magazine to the suffragettes. Some have looked more widely for their inspiration, dedicating their flag to figures in black history, including the writer, Octavia E Butler and Josephine Baker. You can check out each design on Instagram using the hashtag #craftvism2020.
The deadline for all flags to be returned is 8th Jan, so you still have all Christmas to take part. We don’t have any packs left, but if you email me I can send you the instructions, and then all you have to do is rummage around at home for any old bits of embroidery thread and fabric.