Stitch & Think – Workshop with Ayman Kaake & Safa El Samad

Join artists Ayman Kaake and Safa El Samad for a stitching workshop connected to Kaake’s current exhibition Misbaḥa / The Prayer Beads / مسبحة at Counihan Gallery.

‘Misbaha’ serves as a visual representation of Ayman Kaake’s identity and a reflection of his experience within a patriarchal Middle Eastern environment. The work explores the weight of societal expectations, and the constraints placed upon LGBTQIA+ individuals.

In this workshop, artists will guide you in creating a unique stitching piece that will be added to an ‘Abaya’, a white garment that is displayed in the gallery and a cornerstone in Kaake’s video works. You will receive a small fabric patch with the word "love" written in Arabic outline. Stitch in any colour threads to fill the word or create your own design. While you create your piece, the artists will discuss the history of stitching and its cultural significance. At the end of the workshop, you add your creation to the Abaya, and it becomes part of the final artwork.

Materials supplied.

Suitable for adults. Children and teenagers will need to be accompanied by an adult.

Saturday 14th June, 11am – 1pm
Counihan Gallery, 233 Sydney Rd, Brunswick

Free. Bookings required.

Image supplied by Safa El Samad.