Brent Civic Centre
4 March – 2 June 2022
An exhibition exploring what it means to be female through the experiences travelled by women of Brent. Devised by Community Partners and volunteers, a series of workshops gave women a chance to come together, share knowledge and experiences and explore femininity.
The workshops
Music Interpretation:
Renowned musician Diane White explored the process of creating songs. Discussed how musicians transform ideas and experience into finished sounds.
Attendees brought the songs of their culture that inspire and uplift, enjoying the opportunity to work with a professional.
Textiles:
Matilda Velevitch led a textile workshop that delved into the layers of cultural heritage. The threads of language, places, meals, music, memory and feelings were shared.
Participants were invited to discuss these aspects of their lives in a relaxed workshop, where we explored our different, yet often linked heritage.
Participants brought components: a piece of fabric, a bead, an amulet, anything that they felt could be incorporated in the pieces created together.
Dance:
Specialist Harsha Amin explored how dance can be used as a tool for expression. Discussed different styles of Indian dance (classical and folk) their origins and impact on the lives of people.
Participants learned a folk dance Dandiya Raas, which is very popular in the state of Gujarat.
Art and Illustration:
Gender roles and practices can be represented through the everyday objects we use. In workshops lead by local artist, Rachel Lum, attendees brought along objects that represent femininity to them. They used these items to create line drawings which were deconstructed into abstract collage.
The outcomes of these workshops are displayed as part of the exhibition.