Welcome to our fashion-related art program dedicated to celebrating the rich diversity of cultures within the vibrant community of Wyndham. Through a dynamic array of workshops, exhibitions, and collaborations with local artists, we aim to foster a creative space that honours traditions, embraces diversity, and promotes cross-cultural understanding.
The Tapestry of Culture program is designed to showcase the beauty and significance of clothing across different cultures. From traditional clothing techniques workshops to explorations of fashion history from around the world, participants will have the opportunity to delve into the unique styles and narratives woven into every garment.
We are inviting artists from a myriad of backgrounds, to contribute their perspective, as we celebrate the creativity that arises from authentic cultural exchange. At the heart of our program is a commitment to cultural sensitivity and respectful representation.
Join us as we embark on this journey of exploration, appreciation, and celebration of cultural diversity through the universal language of fashion.
Image credit - Analuisa Gamboa, Oaxaca, Mexico
The Flavours of the Street Photography Competition invites photographers to capture not just the food, but the soul of street food culture - the people, the places, and the passion that make it all come alive.
Decoupage is the art of "painting with paper," a decorative technique that allowed participants to bring life to plain surfaces by layering paper cut-outs. No painting or artistic skills were needed, just curiosity and a willingness to have fun! The workshop was beginner-friendly and perfect for all ages. Each participant left with their own unique handmade creations.
About the artist:
Fera is a dedicated community artist and workshop facilitator, boasting over 7 years of expertise in the art of decoupage. Her passion lay in sharing creative practices that were both calming and joyful, making art accessible to everyone. Fera had the honor of working closely with diverse groups, including seniors, multicultural communities, and individuals with disabilities. Her workshop prioritized connection, creativity, and the celebration of handmade art, fostering a welcoming environment for all participants to explore their artistic talents.
Liana Hardy's workshop on street style and documentary photography was a transformative experience for aspiring photographers looking to refine their skills. Participants delved into the intricate world of lens selection, learning to capture both dynamic street scenes and intimate moments with precision. The emphasis on exposure, composition, and creative framing elevated their ability to craft compelling narratives through fashion photography.
Throughout the workshop, Liana guided attendees through the nuances of candid versus staged photography, imparting wisdom on when to let scenes unfold naturally and when to intervene for optimal results. Editing techniques were explored in depth, empowering participants to develop their unique visual voice using industry-standard software.
Lighting proved a crucial aspect, with insights on harnessing natural light's unpredictability to enhance images effectively. Practical tips and tricks enabled photographers to adapt to various lighting conditions on the streets, turning challenges into opportunities for creativity.
Liana's personal journey into fashion photography provided invaluable inspiration, detailing how she built a standout portfolio, leveraged social media for visibility, and secured collaborations with top-tier clients. The workshop not only equipped attendees with technical skills but also fostered a deeper understanding of storytelling and artistic expression in urban settings.
Image Credit –
Her own Image - Anna Nguyen
All other images – Liana Hardy
Date: Saturday 1 March
Location: Immigration Museum, 400 Flinders St, Melbourne
Wyndham City’s Tapestry of Culture Showcase was a vibrant celebration of creativity and diversity, presented as part of the PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival’s Independent Programme at the Immigration Museum.
The showcase highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the Wyndham community, featuring stunning designs and contemporary artistry. Attendees were immersed in stories woven through textiles, fashion, and art—each piece reflecting the unique identities and traditions of Wyndham’s diverse population.
Most images by Mauro Trentin
View the Tapestry of Culture Showcase Gallery (photo credit: Liana Hardy)
Carol Rowlands
A Ddraig Goch - Carol has created a captivating textile artwork, ‘The Red Dragon of Wales,’ meticulously crafted through a combination of hand and machine sewing on recycled fabric.
Born in Wales, land of poetry and song, Carol draws inspiration from the rich cultural heritage of her homeland. Her piece vividly portrays the iconic Welsh national flag featuring a red dragon, passant—a symbol steeped in centuries of history, representing strength, power, and pride within Welsh tradition and folklore.
Carol's work beautifully captures the essence of these enduring cultural motifs, celebrating their significance through her artistic expression. Unfortunately, Carol had to go into surgery during the program. Her friends Kathy Vafiadis and Wendy Knight volunteered to finish her outfit. And we have Wendy walking the runway in the outfit today.
Carolyn Cardinet
It’s a WRAP - Carolyn’s ‘Avant-Garde’ collection features two bold and unconventional wedding pieces—perfect for Melbourne’s unpredictable weather!
The first look transforms a voluminous delivery bag into a striking dress, adorned with plastic lids. A dramatic ruff collar made from plastic wrap adds texture and elegance, creating a grand silhouette.
The second look is a playful nod to the '80s—an A-line fringed mini wedding dress threaded with menthol cigarette filters. Paired with white boots, it brings movement, contrast, and a sense of fun.
A unique headband, crafted from zip-ties and soya sauce bottles, ties the ensemble together, showcasing Carolyn’s creativity in repurposing materials.
Blending tradition with innovation, this collection proves that sustainability and luxury can coexist, redefining upcycling in high fashion.
Christine Lining Bulandus
Armour d’amour - Christine Lining Bulandus ‘Armour d’amour’ is a 2-piece set adorned with a statement apron worn by Stas Shavbskii. Aprons are enduring expressions of care and craftsmanship across generations, from blacksmiths to butchers, cobblers to chefs and artisans to homemakers. This piece is an invitation to explore and reflect on the complex relationship between love and labour.
TO LOVE “Magmahal” in Tagalog is deeply rooted in sacredness and selflessness. The transparent apron depicts the culture of loving and labouring through the layering of ancestral photo mementos taken in her hometown, Pateros, Philippines. The invisible hands symbolise the importance of action and willingness. When the sense of agency is taken away it can drive one to the depths of insanity and in that hell of decision making only when one’s true purpose breaks through will heaven’s door be revealed.
Christine’s work dares you to ask yourself: Is lasting love a manifestation of limitless labour or is labour driven love an act of utter madness? As Ophelia uttered in Shakespeare’s Hamlet: We know what we are but not what we may be.
Claudia Ines Vidal Aguilar
Interconnections - Claudia Vidal Aguilar, originally from Cali, Colombia—the World’s Salsa Capital—infuses her Afro-Latinx heritage and the rhythms of her hometown into her artistic journey. Inspired by salsa masters, classic boleros, and her rich cultural roots, she explores movement, global music, and ancestral connections.
Her wearable art piece, ‘Interconnections,’ redefines strength and unity through an intricate, embellished metal design. Its woven structure symbolizes resilience, rewriting misconceptions of slavery and honouring her ancestry with grace and transformation. Every thread speaks to fortitude and cultural pride.
A seasoned performer, Claudia has graced global stages, modelled at Melbourne Fashion Festival, and been featured in major publications. Merging dance and design, she crafts powerful visual narratives celebrating femininity and belonging. Inspired by her textile studies at RMIT, ‘Interconnections’ embodies heritage and empowerment, transforming materials into symbols of unity and inviting reflection on the beauty of Afro-Latinx identity.
Connor (FOOT) Ovenden-Shaw
It’s a soft knock life - At the intersection of protest and the preposterous, ‘It’s a Soft Knock Life’ is a bold reclamation of fat bias, both personal and societal. Clad in a pavlova-shaped gown engineered entirely from recycled materials, the artist challenges the spectacle of fatness, drawing from deeply personal experiences—such as being filmed while eating—as well as broader cultural narratives.
Fuelled by phrases like “you look like you give really great hugs,” the garment subverts the light and fluffy language often used to describe what should be celebrated as heavy, rich, and layered. Inspired by 1980s Women’s Weekly magazines and 1990s children's costuming, this exaggerated, intentionally oversized creation invites the viewer to confront their own biases. In its absurdity, the work makes the audience complicit, transforming an object of derision into a statement of power, joy, and resistance—demanding a bigger conversation about the politics of body image.
Elizabeth van Herwaarden
Sentinel Island - In 1973, Elizabeth stayed alone on Sentinel Island, a remote, uninhabited 25-acre landmass in Bass Strait. One evening, she witnessed thousands of Short-Tailed Shearwaters—Moonbirds—returning to feed their young. A river of birds streamed past for half an hour, an unbroken flow of life. In that moment, she felt deeply connected to the world around her.
Today, the Moonbirds of Sentinel Island are gone, their numbers devastated by plastic ingestion, food scarcity from warming oceans, and violent storms. In response, Elizabeth has turned to fragile dressmaking pattern paper, dyeing it with natural pigments—Indigo for the sea, Oxalis, Cherry Ballart, and Cinerea for the land. She has spun and sewn this delicate paper into a garment, a reflection of the ecosystem’s fragility.
‘Sentinel Island’ stands as a warning. The loss is real, the collapse imminent. Elizabeth urges a collective awakening—while there is still time.
Frances Loriente
‘Trinarcia and The Kingfisher’ by Francis Loriente is a powerful fusion of traditional and imaginative costuming inspired by her grandmother’s Sicilian-Albanian heritage. Drawing from the rich cultural legacy of her maternal grandmother, who hailed from the Piana degli Albanesi, Loriente’s design uses varying shades of blue fabrics to represent the seas her ancestors crossed on the Sorrento in 1956 when they journeyed to Australia.
The headpiece and cape incorporate the Trinacria, a symbol of Sicily, with its three bent legs forming a triangle, representing the island's three capes: Peloro, Passero, and Lilibeo.
Traditionally placed behind doors for protection, this symbol connects the wearer to their roots. The front of the garment features the Kingfisher, a bird symbolizing peace, prosperity, and knowledge. The crocheted elements in the bodice and belt buckle reflect traditional Sicilian craftsmanship, honouring Loriente’s grandmothers’ beliefs and their memories of working with yarn. This design celebrates cultural heritage and the journey of adaptation.
Jenny Rutsch
‘Once upon a Time’ - Enchanted forests, secret gardens, folk stories, and fairy tales… Inspired by the powerful and magical role that nature has played in many fairy tales and works of children’s literature. Jenny Rütsch’s wearable artwork ‘Once upon a Time’ references the experience of wonder as well as the alchemical force of nature in these stories. This has led to a longstanding fascination with and love of the natural world. The artwork is modelled by her daughter, Jessica.
The skirt is made from recycled paper. These papery pieces of more mundane, everyday stories have been transformed into handmade paper, which in turn has been dyed using pigments from plants foraged from around her home. The blouse has been constructed from watercolour paper- eco-printed using plants from her garden and then hand embroidered.
Kate Robinson
‘Carpet of Spring’ - There is a magical place where morning light cascades through ornate stained-glass windows drenching in hues Persian rugs laid across tiled floors.
For a fragment each day Nasir al-Mulk, The Pink Mosque, in Shiraz, is coated in roses. As colour dapples onto the vibrant threads below, glass and silk burst and reshape the space into an overwhelming mirage.
In my home, a single Persian rug is laid on the floor. My Aunt tells me to hide it from the sun’s rays, to not dull its brilliance. But to preserve is to mute. The threads yearn for the warmth of the sun, to dance with exuberance, to glisten in its full radiance.
I found the fabric of this dress in Iran, and I gild its vibrant form with beads and sequins. Just as the sun peers through coloured glass onto silk and exalts and sculpts new luminance. It is a piece that is woven together with gossip between sisters and secret legacies. Becoming the patterns of spring. Sparkling with the chaos of spilt tea. Blushing in the morning light.
Mandi Barton
'Reclaiming Elegance: Indigenising the Victorian Era’ - This wearable art piece reimagines Victorian-era fashion through a cultural lens, symbolising reclamation, resilience, and storytelling. Rooted in the traditions of the Yorta Yorta, Barapa Barapa, and Wemba Wemba peoples, the design reflects the cultural narrative of the lands between Swan Hill and Echuca on the Murray River.
The bonnet, shaped like a coolamon, incorporates native flora and emu eggs, blending traditional practices with colonial styles. The loose corset-style top, crafted from possum skins, features sections that reveal the skin of ancestors, reflecting deep connections to Country and cultural practices. Broken emu eggs represent disrupted songlines, reminding of the fragmentation caused by colonisation.
A luxurious blue satin hoop skirt, adorned with hundreds of emu feathers, contrasts Victorian grandeur with Indigenous materials. The feathers wrap around the design, symbolising connection, movement, and strength. This piece celebrates identity and heritage, reclaiming colonial fashion as a powerful medium of Indigenous storytelling and asserting sovereignty.
Matty Chilly
‘Earth and Sky: Threads of Resilience’ - As an Aboriginal artist and proud descendant of the Wiradjuri, Wemba Wemba, Mutti Mutti, Dadi Dadi, Yorta Yorta, Barapa Barapa, Nari Nari, Yithi Yithi, Gubbi Gubbi people with ties to the Vanuatu (South Sea Islands) and the Māori Iwi’s of Aotearoa, New Zealand, Matty’s practice is deeply rooted in the traditions, stories, and materials of their ancestors. Living and working on Wurundjeri and Boon Wurrung Country, they draw inspiration from the natural landscapes and the enduring cultural knowledge passed down through generations. Weaving is their way of honouring this knowledge while creating contemporary pieces that reflect both their heritage and identity.
This woven piece by the artist embodies a harmonious blend of ancient traditions and modern storytelling.
Crafted with natural fibres and adorned with native bird feathers, including those of the emu and the majestic white-tailed black cockatoo, it carries profound connections to Country and culture. The emu symbolizes endurance and wisdom, while the white-tailed black cockatoo signifies transformation, freedom, and connection to the spirit world. Together, they create a dynamic interplay between earth and sky. Through this work, the artist honours ancestral strength, reflects cultural vibrancy, and sparks meaningful conversations about identity and connection to Country.
Max Lazaridis
‘Veil’ – Veil explores our human experience of embedded deception. Deception is consistent in the stories of the past and continues to be limitless in the fabric of society. There is a tension between perception and reality that weaves seamlessly through our daily lives.
This garment is crafted using cotton poplin with jagged panels stitched together, waxed cotton, and knit elements. These materials were chosen for their contrasting textures and symbolic qualities, representing the interplay between what is seen and what is hidden. The jagged panels evoke the fragmentation of truth, while the waxed cotton serves as a protective layer, shielding deeper truths underneath.
Veil is a wearable statement about our relationship with honesty, disguise, and the multifaceted nature of identity. Through its layered construction and dynamic materials, the piece invites viewers to reflect on their own encounters with deception and the truths they choose to uncover. Layers must be peeled back to reveal authenticity, leaving us to question what lies beneath.
Nandita Nadkarni
Sanskriti Sangam (Cultural Confluence) - In this wearable ceramic garment, the artist celebrates India’s rich cultural diversity by incorporating iconic design elements from various regions. The piece blends the intricate Phulkari embroidery of the North, the elegant Kanjeevaram motifs from the South, bold Pathani designs from the West, and the geometric patterns of Nagaland's tribal art from the Northeast. Each design represents the distinct artistic traditions of its respective region, coming together to showcase India’s vibrant cultural tapestry.
The choice of ceramics as the medium presents a unique challenge, pushing the boundaries of conventional art forms. The artist experimented with embossing, carving, colouring, and glazing ceramic tiles, transforming this rigid material into a wearable garment. This creation not only honours India’s diverse heritage but also symbolizes the unity found within its contrasts, demonstrating the power of merging diverse cultural identities into a single extraordinary piece.
Parminder Kaur Bhandal
‘Garland of the Earth’ - Parminder Kaur Bhandal is an artist whose work delicately weaves the threads of ancestry, memory, and belonging. Her creations are tender tributes to sacred acts of love and the timeless stories that shape the heart and the earth, offering spaces where reverence and wonder bloom.
‘Garland of the Earth,’ modelled by Amritjot Singh is a wearable art piece that merges the spirituality of Sikhism with the intricate elegance of Mughal craftsmanship. Crafted from organic cotton and palm leaves, it employs traditional woodblock printing and natural embellishments. This garment is a love letter for the delicate tapestry of nature and tradition.
Peter Spring
Woven Whispers - Woven Whispers celebrates the spirit and dedication of the working-class community in the western suburbs of Melbourne. It embodies the pride of hard work and the harmonious connection within culture.
This hand-knitted artwork, measuring over 2 metres in length, is crafted from wool and has taken over 500 hours to create. Each stitch embodies the craftsmanship and care that reflect our commitment to the culture of Melbourne's Inner West.
It is inspired by the rich tapestry of culture created in Melbourne's inner west, where diversity and resilience have given birth to a thriving community.
Drawing from the stories, traditions, and values of this vibrant area, the artist has crafted a wearable art piece that honours the unique spirit of the region. Through this work, the artist aims to celebrate the collective strength and shared identity that define Melbourne's inner west.
Samantha Gehrich
Mumma Mantle - Mumma Mantle is an ode to maker- Samantha Gehrich’s journey through her early motherhood years. Inspired by her experience with her three young daughters Sam has created a moving and interchangeable artwork that encapsulates the essence of what it is to be a mother today. The emotions and thoughts that jostle for place daily are represented in colourful patches and tied together. The tightest of ties represent days held in strength and confidence whilst the loose barely their knots pay homage to the many days Mothers hold on by little more than a thread.
Sam’s reimagining and grappling of self after children is depicted through her use of simple embroidery, applique, and patchwork. Spelled out quite plainly – joy, noise, loss.
Look closely and you will see beautiful words and thoughts in colour and texture. Look closer and you will feel the battle of ‘Who am I? Where did I go?’ pitted against the never ending ‘watch me mum,’ ‘No! I only want Mumma’ and ‘I can do what I can do!’
A marvellous, patched together life has been stitched piece by piece into this Mantle.
Yes, she is a Mumma. But she is Sam, and she is still here.
Tamay Beam
Grounded Strides - A Culturally inspired piece by Tamay Beam, an Aboriginal Minjungbal woman from Booningbah, Fingal, New South Wales, and a proud member of the Bundjalung nation.
This creation reflects Tamay’s Cultural heritage, blending traditional Aboriginal artistry with contemporary bridal fashion. The dress is a powerful fusion of a modern white wedding bodice, and a striking, dramatic skirt crafted from emu feathers—each chosen to embody the strength, grace, and deep connection to the land.
Complementing the gown, the handwoven reverse headpiece, necklace, and earrings incorporate echidna quills and emu feathers—symbols of resilience, connection to country, Cultural responsibility, beauty, and the sacred relationship with the natural world.
This work is more than just a dress; Every stitch, every feather, and every quill tell a story of connection to country, to ancestors, and to the vibrant future of Aboriginal artistry.
Xiang Li
‘Blooming’ - Xiang is a Chinese Australian artist and professional Art Therapist, known for her exploration of cultural integration through art. As a first-generation immigrant, her work often reflects the blend of her heritage and her experiences living in Australia.
This creation is a dress inspired by an ancient Tang Dynasty painting, depicting women in the distinctive "诃子" (Her Zi) attire. The Tang Dynasty, recognised as a peak of art and literature in China, was a time of great cultural exchange. Chang'an, the capital city, was a melting pot of diverse peoples and clothing styles.
Xiang's dress fuses flowers with cultural significance in China, alongside native Australian flowers, symbolising the harmonious merging of her two cultures. This piece is a testament to Xiang's appreciation for cultural diversity, reflecting her personal journey and the beauty of integration between the Chinese and Australian cultures she navigates.
Zoe Jones
‘She Claims the Frame, Hello’ - This wearable artwork, ‘She Claims the Frame, Hello,’ handwoven and worn by Zoe Jones, is a bold assertion of feminine power, strength, and self-expression.
Through Zoe’s instinctual, meditative, and process-driven approach, the piece subconsciously draws from the striking silhouettes of strong female characters in film, reflecting her decade-long career in film production.
Having spent years immersed in visual storytelling—both personally and professionally—she now recognizes how costume design, cinematic framing, and the way women take up space, both on screen and behind the scenes, have shaped her approach to textiles.
Zoe’s practice incorporates meditative weaving and rug-hooking techniques, blending natural and recycled textiles into a structured framework of wire and grid canvas. This framework speaks to the societal constructs women continue to navigate—sometimes restrictive, sometimes empowering. The corset-like bodice and exaggerated shoulder pads evoke the weight of tradition but also the power of those who subvert it.
Unapologetically bold in hot pinks, reds, and purples, this piece rejects invisibility. It commands attention—strong, feminine, and impossible to ignore, just like the women on screen who refuse to be forgotten.
Zoe Sydney
‘The Discarded’ - Bursting onto the local drag scene two years ago, Zero has made a name for themselves as the Queen of trash couture. Zero has broken more needles than they can count in their quest to prove you can put anything under the sewing machine. They are used to working with zero budget and still turning a look! This garment is made entirely out of found waste materials that have been given a new life. Hand dyed soft plastics bring soft movement and colour to the runway.
Zero expresses that their work invites people to view the often overlooked and discarded elements of life through a fresh lens. They believe that when you truly look at something, you come to appreciate it. For them, this is an embodiment of queer culture—taking what is rejected or overlooked and revealing its inherent beauty. They present the things they have encountered and fallen in love with, with the hope that others will see and appreciate the same beauty. Through their drag, Zero highlights Queer and Trans joy, allowing others to witness the vibrant beauty they find within their community.
Wyndham Arts and Culture partnered with Wunder Gym to present the Tapestry of Culture Wearable Art & Fashion Incubator program. The program supported 20 creatives in developing and showcasing wearable artworks at a prominent fashion festival. It ran from November 17, 2024, to March 8, 2025, offering participants a packed schedule including learning sessions from Melbourne fashion luminaries like Collective Closets, Sister Duo, Fatuma and Laurinda Ndenzako, Remuse, Tamara Leacock, and Sai-Wai Foo from Melbourne Fashion Festival.
The program aimed to celebrate cultural diversity through fashion, highlighting the beauty and significance of clothing across different cultures. Artists with varied experience in different mediums and methodologies were invited to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). A panel of industry experts selected 20 artists based on their demonstrated experience in wearable art/fashion, how their practice would benefit from the program, commitment to program activities, connection to the Wyndham area, and articulation of creative ambitions.
Participants received free participation and a materials stipend ($500 plus GST if applicable) to cover material costs. Each artist created a unique 'wearable artwork' garment presented on the runway and a International Women's day event as part of the Pay Melbourne fashion festival The program emphasized cultural sensitivity, respectful representation, and the universal language of fashion as a means of exploring and celebrating cultural diversity.
Date: Friday 2 May
Location: Saltwater Community Centre, 153 Saltwater Promenade, Point Cook
This engaging workshop promoted relaxation, self-expression, and cultural appreciation while fostering inner peace and mindfulness. Participants explored vibrant colour combinations, unlocking their creativity through the meditative art of mandalas.
Beyond the artistic process, the session delved into the cultural significance of mandalas across traditions, offering deeper insight into their historical and spiritual importance. Engaging in this practice helped reduce stress, enhanced fine motor skills, and served as a therapeutic outlet for self-reflection.
The workshop was facilitated by Ramanjeet Kaur from Raman Arts & Classes, a self-taught artist with over eight years of experience. A Wyndham Art Prize Finalist (2019) and Wyndham Business Award Finalist (2023), she is known for her step-by-step guidance, which empowered participants of all ages to explore their creativity.
This enriching experience was a celebration of creativity, mindfulness, and the power of women in the arts.
Image credit - Pascal Brauer
The Ethnic Elegance Street Photography Competition celebrated the beauty, history, and cultural significance of traditional attire as expressed through street style. Photographers were invited to capture street style fashion and delve into the rich tapestry of traditional fashion found on the streets.
The competition sought photographs that showcased the elegance, diversity, and vibrancy of traditional fashion in urban environments, emphasizing the visual aesthetics of traditional attire and conveying the stories, customs, and identities woven into each garment.
Liana Hardy is a Street Style Fashion Photographer based in Melbourne. A former Fashion Design graduate, she holds a patent for beautiful style and design all the while personally invested in the ethos of slow fashion for sustainability in a rapidly changing landscape.
In 2017, Liana launched her YouTube Channel aimed at sharing tutorials on upcycling and DIYS, driven by a passion to inspire and educate individuals on sustainable practices, fostering creativity while minimising environmental impact.
Liana has garnered an audience that share a commonality and love for sewing, creating and upcycling. When she isn’t busy on the pavements capturing styles that catch her eye, she enjoys spending time sewing her own garments to wear inspired from the people she photographs on the streets.
View: Ethnic Elegance Street Photography Competition (Winners)
View: Ethnic Elegance Street Photography Competition (All Entries)
Date: Sat 8 Feb, 2025
Location: Saltwater Community Centre
Colourful unwanted op-shop surplus T.shirts twist and turn into up-cycled fabric yarn to weave, plait or bead. Fabric markers, scissors and and your imagination turn old Tshirts into fashionable new creations! This workshop is a relaxing and tactile experience, where you can unwind, focus your hands, and soothe your mind as you explore the calming joy of creating unique T.shirt Art.
Facilitated by Sarah Seahorse who is an award-winning multi-disciplinary artist, costume designer, craftivist and community artist. She specializes in fashion, headwear, and wearable art that serves as a powerful commentary on social, environmental, and political issues.
A self- described 'trash-troll', Sarah's commitment to sustainability is evident in her perpetual gleaning and repurposing of unwanted rubbish into works of art and beauty.
A firm believer in the transformative power of creative self-expression, Sarah aims to create inclusive spaces where people can engage in artistic activities outside of formal education. Her dedication to storytelling through recycled materials and wearable art reflects her belief in the potential of these mediums to express complex ideas and personal stories, particularly in collaborative or group contexts.
About the workshop:
Come and create a pair of earrings, a funky necklace or a brooch using a paper Mache technique. Artist and designer Leila Ashtiani will take you through step by step how to create a unique set of items, using a papier mache technique. Papier-mâché (in French: papier-mâché) is a type of craft with a long history. Papier mâché literally means "chewed paper" and is a combination of pieces of paper or pulp. Papier mâché is an art form in which beautiful and unique shapes are created using various materials and raw materials. You can sculpt using recycled materials such as newspaper and toilet rolls.
In this workshop, you will use this process to make wearable jewellery, and leave with a new pair of earrings or a necklace or a brooch. Learn more about technique of paper Mache by creating small scale sculptural jewellery pieces, learn about how to recycle paper and create something new and fun! Work with different shapes and forms and paint your final pieces to add colour and texture.
About the artist:
Since gaining first place at Al-Zahra University in Tehran, Iran, Leila has had 21 years’ experience in Art and Design as an Artist, Gallery Manager, Teacher and Director on the Tehran City Council. After leaving University she ran the Kamalolmolk Gallery in Tehran, whilst also working as a director for the Council of Tehran in the department of Art and Culture.
She worked there for 7 years, organising arts festivals and workshops, and publishing a book about the region’s flower festival. Whilst running a Gallery in Tehran for 4 years she organised and curated exhibitions, ran workshops and supported other artists to help them improve their painting and drawing skills.
As an artist she is familiar with many different techniques and media, specialising in oil, gouache, acrylic, pastel and water colour. She often combines different media in her paintings. She is particularly influenced by Surrealism and the merging of imagination and reality and is a great admirer of Salvador Dali.
All materials are provided.
This is an Adults only workshop.
Embroidery holds a significant place in Ukrainian identity and folk culture, passed down through generations. During this workshop, you will delve into a realm of symbols and codes inspired by flora, fauna, and cosmic energies. You will learn embroidery stitching techniques to create your own protective symbol on your favourite garment, cushion, or as a framed art piece. You will work with the design oberih (amulet) that originates from north-western Ukraine. Oberih is potent and contains a code that bestows protection, luck and good fortune upon its owner.
This masterclass is designed for adults – whether complete beginners or those with some embroidery experience. Join us for a time of mindfulness, self-connection and to create your very own cherished piece of textile art.
About the Artist
Nataliya Forshaw is a Melbourne-based craft artist of Ukrainian origin. Nataliya was born and lived for decades in Ukraine and carries Ukrainian craftsmanship culture and traditions. Her main interest is traditional Ukrainian embroidery. She is passionate about studying century old national embroidery, Vyshyvanka (embroidered shirt) and Rushnyk (embroidered towel) and learning traditional embroidery techniques and stitching. Nataliya explores the world of signs and symbols used in traditional Ukrainian embroidery art. Some symbols roots date back 1000 years back to clothing worn by the first Slavic people who lived in the territory of modern Ukraine.
Nataliya learnt from renowned Ukrainian embroidery master's and national costume researchers from the Ukrainian National Culture Treasure Museums and Collections.
This workshop is proudly brought to you in collaboration with Create for Ukraine Project and Space2b.
All materials are provided.
This is an Adults only workshop.
Location: Saltwater Community Centre
Date: Saturday 14 September
Sashiko is a traditional Japanese embroidery style which dates back to the Edo period (1615-1868). There are five main types of Sashiko, which follow geometric patterns. In this workshop Maoko will take you through the process step-by-step and reveal the stories behind sashiko and constructing a pin cushion using Japanese materials. Come and enjoy the quiet moment of having nothing in your mind, but to simply stitch and find the result of a beautiful pattern called Komezashi (Rice Stitch).
About the artist:
Maoko Carroll is a Japanese sewer and artisan. Born and raised in Yokohama, Japan, she learnt sewing and mending skills from an early age, watching her mother sew and knit. Her mother made all Maoko’s jumpers and dresses, which meant that she grew up surrounded by old and new materials, colourful fabrics, threads and buttons. She has run many workshops in partnership with Space2b Social Design and runs a regular sewing and mending circle at Space2b in St Kilda.
All materials are provided.
This is an Adults only workshop.
Location: Saltwater Community Centre
Date: Saturday 10 August
In a joyful nod to tradition, this workshop facilitated by textile designer Lisa Carroll, celebrates the art of embroidery while weaving sustainability and mending into the fabric of our creative journey. Embracing the ethos of earning merit badges, participants will embark on a delightful exploration of embroidery—an eco-conscious medium that not only allows for personal expression but also promotes sustainability through the revival of mending skills.
During the workshop, you'll master a variety of embroidery stitches, crafting personalized floral badges or patches from repurposed fabrics. Each stitch becomes a stitch towards sustainability as we mend and repurpose materials, transforming them into small, wearable masterpieces that carry a story of renewal and care for the environment. This workshop is more than just stitching; it's a mindful and meditative practice. As you immerse yourself in the rhythmic dance of needle and thread, you'll discover a space to unwind, reflect, and reconnect with the timeless art of slow craftsmanship.
Whether you're a beginner eager to learn or an experienced sewer looking to expand your skills, join us in crafting your creativity into sustainable works of art.
Surface Paradise by Lisa Carroll
Lisa Carroll (https://www.instagram.com/surface_paradise_workshops/) , a textile designer from Victoria, Australia, finds inspiration from her rural upbringing and the traditions passed down through her family.
Over two decades, she has honed her craft, becoming known for seamlessly merging European traditional techniques, which Lisa learnt from masters of the craft in Paris with techniques with modern design tools. Lisa's journey has been one of collaboration and exploration, working alongside respected designers and exhibiting her work globally. For nearly twenty years, she shared her expertise as a lecturer at RMIT, nurturing the next generation of creatives.
Her innovative approach is exemplified by the concept of the desktop atelier, a blend of digital technologies and traditional methods that she pioneered. Recently completing her master's degree, Lisa continues to push boundaries in textile design, driven by a quiet passion for her art. Additionally, Lisa achieved recognition as a runner-up in the prestigious international embroidery competition, Hand and Lock, held in London, further affirming her dedication and skill in the field.
Location: Saltwater Community Centre
Date: Saturday 13 July
This event aimed to honour and recognize the rich culture, history, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Join us in this traditional Naynertgoroke weaving workshop and create your own earrings. Weaving is important to many mobs, who utilize different techniques and stories.
We are honoured to have Samantha Bennett as our workshop facilitator. Samantha is a proud Bunurong/Boonwurrung and Wiradjuri woman who has a long history with community engagement and volunteering within her Aboriginal community in the Kulin Nation. As a mum of four and kinship parent to many more, Samantha is a strong advocate for healing intergenerational wrongs by promoting and sharing Aboriginal culture and encouraging reconciliation both within mainstream and Aboriginal communities.
This workshop is suitable for all levels of weavers, and all materials will be supplied.
Anyone under the age of 18 should be accompanied by an adult.
Location: Saltwater Community Centre
Dates: Saturday 8 June
Participants will engage in the artistry of Pacifica techniques, like tying, wrapping, stringing, beading, knotting, twisting, and weaving, to craft personalized jewellery pieces, including necklaces, earrings, headbands, rings, and bracelets. Materials are provided.
Join this workshop to create your own jewellery and enjoy the collective experience of crafting.
Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today and be part of the movement towards a more conscious and stylish future.
About the artist
Aunty Vicki Kinai, a Master Weaver residing in Melbourne, Australia, proudly carries within herself the cultural heritage of her homeland, Papua New Guinea (PNG), particularly the rich Melpa traditions of the Hagen people in the Western Highlands. Rooted in her upbringing, these timeless customs and rituals remain integral parts of her identity, shaping her daily life and providing a profound sense of connection and belonging.
As a custodian of the Melpa culture, Aunty Vicki is dedicated to both practicing and sharing its unique artistic expressions, which serve as sources of healing and joy. Embracing the ethos of sustainability and authenticity, she utilizes locally available materials in her weaving endeavours, ensuring that the essence of her traditional artistry resonates authentically with those who engage with it.
In the crafting of jewellery, Aunty Vicki relies on the power of imagination and intuition, allowing the envisioned end product to guide her selection of materials and techniques. Free from the constraints of sketches, models, or digital previews, each creation is an organic manifestation of creativity and cultural heritage, imbued with the spirit of tradition and innovation.
What will be provided
Anyone under the age of 18 should be accompanied by an adult.
Location: Saltwater Community Centre
Date: Saturday 11 May
This workshop will introduce you to the art of plant-based dyeing. Throughout the day, you will discover various techniques using natural fibres and plant-based materials. Participants will have the unique opportunity to upcycle and dye their own natural fibre item, either brought from home or by choosing from a selection of undyed REMUSE samples available for purchase during the workshop.
You will explore an array of dyes and techniques, including a brief instruction on creating a chemical vs. organic indigo dye vat, dyeing with food based / food waste dyes such as turmeric, onion skins, and chocolate. We encourage you to bring along a natural washed, undyed natural fibre remnant that you would like to transform during the workshop, allowing you to explore your creativity while minimizing waste.
Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today and be part of the movement towards a more conscious and stylish future.
About the Artist
Tamara Leacock, a New York-born designer, brings a wealth of expertise to her label and textile arts practice REMUSE. With training from the Fashion Institute of Technology and the Paris American Academy, Tamara holds a dual Bachelor of Arts degree in Latin American Studies and International Studies from Yale University. Deepening her knowledge, she pursued a Master of Arts in Individualized Study at New York University, focusing on fashion as a vehicle for social justice. Tamara's dedication to sustainability extends to teaching at Collarts in the Fashion and Sustainability and Fashion Marketing Bachelor's Degree Programs, working alongside the next generation of conscious fashion leaders.
At REMUSE, the foundation lies in promoting diversity and embracing low-impact design practices. Each garment is meticulously handcrafted by Tamara using ethically sourced materials, including natural, organic, deadstock, and reclaimed plant-based fabrics. To further align with sustainable values, REMUSE employs plant-based and low-impact fibre reactive dyes for a truly eco-conscious approach. By merging artistry and environmental consciousness, REMUSE seeks to create clothing that not only emulates nature but also complements and preserves it.
Please bring the following items:
What you will be provided:
Anyone under the age of 18 should be accompanied by an adult.
Participants stepped into a world of collage storytelling during the 4-hour immersive Collagism workshop, where they created deeply personal collaged shadow boxes capturing fragments of their own histories. Inspired by the rich tradition of Mexican shadow boxes and the emotive portraiture of Frida Kahlo, the workshop encouraged them to collage and paint unique three-dimensional artworks that reflected their identities, memories, and aesthetics.
Guided by artist Collagism (Holly-Anne Buck), participants explored:
• The use of collage as a form of visual storytelling and portraiture
• Methods for blending found images, textures, and colours to evoke emotion and memory
• Techniques for layering portraits and environments within a shadow box format
• The therapeutic and joyful aspects of collage making
No previous art experience was required—just imagination and a willingness to share personal stories. Whether exploring their heritage, crafting a dreamlike self-portrait, or reimagining the past through surreal imagery, each participant walked away with a finished collaged artwork that brought their story to life in a dynamic, tangible way.