In this workshop where art and activism collide, we explore how crafts like cross stitch, embroidery, quilting, and crochet can create social, political, and cultural change. Through a diverse array of works spanning from crochet designs challenging gender stereotypes to embroidery pieces addressing environmental issues, this exhibit will challenge you to consider the underlying message in each piece of art on display.  

History & Distinction

The term craftivism was first coined by artist Betsy Greer in 2003 (“Craftivism”), however the practice of craft and activism has existed for much longer. The founder of the Craftivist Collective, Sarah Corbett, defines craftivism as activism being the main priority “but craft is the tool” (Iqbal). Craftivism is an alternative form of activism often preferred by introverts, but can be combined with extroverted efforts like marches, boycotts and sit-ins. Some examples of craftivism include the AIDs memorial quilt, the Pussy Hats, and the Tiny Pricks Project . This class has pulled inspirations from many different kinds of artists like Alexis Castadgli who put anti-nazi messages in his artwork while he was a prisoner of war (“Alexis Casdagli”). We have also learned about modern artists such as Grayson, who is currently creating a project advocating for the end of gun violence in America, while also documenting the creation process on tiktok.  

Methods

In developing this workshop, I conducted research on different craftivism projects related to whichever medium we were working with in class that week. Throughout the semester my goal was to expose the students to many different kinds of projects that differed in size, medium, and issue being addressed. We also learned about different ways craftivism pieces have been shared with others through methods of galleries, public displays, or social media. 

Each class we would begin with a lecture on a craftivism piece. We would learn about the artwork, the artist, the impact of the project and the medium used. Then as a class we'd have a discussion on the effectiveness of the craftivism piece and any other related question. Finally we'd spend the rest of class learning how to do the craft medium by completing smaller projects either inspired by the craftivism piece of the week or related to building the technical skills needed to craft. Each week students got the opportunity to complete a hands-on activity that aided in the development of craft skills used in their final projects. 

Audience & Impact  

The Craftivism workshop consisted of freshman and sophomore art scholars students who were interested in learning more about crafts and merging the art form with activism. Throughout the workshop, the goal was to expand students' artistic horizons by introducing them to various crafting techniques and mediums, and to expand their understanding of activism as a tool for meaningful change. Collectively, the workshop fostered a sense of community and purpose, as students engaged in collaborative projects and discussions on pressing issues. Throughout this experience I've learned so much about myself as a teacher and leader. As their workshop leader, witnessing the growth and creativity of the students was extremely inspiring and I can't wait to see how students continue to create craft artwork in the future. 

References  

“Alexis Casdagli: The Man Who Took on the Nazis with a Needle.” British Red Cross, www.redcross.org.uk/stories/our-movement/our-history/the-man-who-took-on-the-nazis-with-a-needle. Accessed 17 Apr. 2024. 

“Craftivism: How Gentle Protest Is Helping the World One Stitch at a Time.” NEST Creative Spaces Community Interest Company, www.nestcreativespaces.co.uk/post/craftivism-how-gentle-protest-is-helping-the-world-one-stitch-at-a-time#:~:text=Craftivism%20is%20activism%20%2B%20craft.,was%20socially%20or%20politically%20motivated. Accessed 8 Apr. 2024. 

Iqbal, Nosheen. “A Stitch in Time: How Craftivists Found Their Radical Voice.” The Guardian, Guardian News and Media, 28 July 2019, www.theguardian.com/world/2019/jul/28/craftivism-protest-women-march-donald-trump. 

Acknowledgements 

I’d like to thank the Arts Scholars staff for this incredible opportunity, and their guidance through the whole process. I’d like to thank my TA, Sophia, for all of her support this past semester, your encouragement and experience has helped so much. Finally I’d like to thank my friends and family for being my cheerleaders and biggest supporters throughout these past two years <3