Narrative Textiles based Stitch Collage with Ailish Henderson

Whether we are aware of it or not, we all have a story to tell. Learn how to use inspirational collage resources, along with your own photographs, memorabilia, and any treasures you wish to bring along to inspire you and incorporate into your artworks created within the session. This is visual storytelling at its best.  

The session will be focused in a fun and relaxed way, with no high aspirations or strict rules – this is your chance for creative play. This workshop has been directly inspired by Ailish’s own artwork, which will be discussed and visually showcased at the beginning of this session.  

At the end of the session, you will leave with inspiration to know how to develop your own stitched collage pieces using your own personal narrative. You will have begun this project and worked at your own pace to produce at least the beginnings of a stitched collage.

Your Tutor Ailish Henderson 

Ailish is a narrative based artist, centring her practice on the premise that through the act of using ones’ hands in a creative mannerism, a form of healing can be located for the creative director themselves emotionally. This transposes into her work in a subtle, gentle, and censured manner. Her artistic expression visually comprises of mixed media embroidered works, some with sculptural value.  At present she is most recognised for her Stitched Collage Portraits, which provide visions and insights into her personal historical familial lines. With three solo exhibitions to date, she spends her time developing her work, in tandem with writing for such publications as Embroidery, published by the Embroiderers’ Guild.  Her book Narrative Textiles will be published this October and she is a former student of the OCA.

Materials List

A list of required materials:

• A table large enough to spread out your collage material and paints
• Reference photographs of your subject
• Handmade paper sheets (Such as khadi rag paper, which you can buy online and in art supplies shops)
• Paper and fabric scraps for the collage
• Use personal source material, such as travel memorabilia, tickets, bags, as well as tissue paper, lace or old clothing
• Fine-liner pen
• Non-waterproof
• A small container of water to use with your paints
• Small watercolour paintbrush
• Watercolour paints or dyes (Such as Koh-i-Noor, available online and in art supplies shops)
• Scissors
• Glue stick
• Sewing needle and a few embroidery threads in your choice of colours 

Optional materials Gilding wax such as Treasure Gold for adding metallic highlights

Everyone is welcome!