Community Arts by ZK collaborated with the Super Slow Way to deliver an exciting textiles project called WE ARE WOVEN. Artist Jenny Waterson led this fantastic project.

 

Jenny is a textile artist and maker working in weave and stitch. She is passionate about using textiles to support social and emotional wellbeing, as well as helping people to explore their own creativity. She works with communities to make art and provide creative experiences in gallery and heritage settings. Jenny grew up in East London and now lives in Altrincham, South Manchester. Jenny holds a BA (Hons) degree in Textile Design from Nottingham Trent University, a Master’s degree in Vehicle Design from the Royal College of Art in London, and is an elected Fellow of the Chartered Society of Designers.

 

Jenny worked with a group of women from Lancashire exploring a variety of textile techniques such as weaving, wrapping, binding, and stitching. Each member of the group then chose a favourite technique to develop, with Jenny’s guidance and support. Our community artist, Louise Cunningham, worked alongside Jenny to develop her own practice and discover more about textiles.

 

 

The workshops provided a place to meet up and connect, helping our community to grow confidence, learn new skills, build friendships, and boost community resilience. The project helped to combat poor mental health and reduce isolation.

 

Taking place at our headquarters, Northlight Estates, an old cotton mill right on the canal, we took inspiration from local history and heritage. Using unique fabrics and objects that were personal and significant to each participant, we told stories through our work.

 

In the final session, each member of the group brought in food from their culture to share and presented their work in a final presentation. This final celebration of work empowered the women, giving them a voice and platform to share their skills, talents, and achievements. At Community Arts by ZK, our main goal is to help our community to thrive and excel in an environment where they feel valued, supported, and encouraged. We would like to thank Jenny Waterson and The Super Slow Way for helping us to deliver this fantastic project.