Stitch after Stitch. Inspiring Arpilleras, Amateur Freedom, Intimate Activism and Letting Go

Abstract

As a Chilean embroiderer/researcher, the exhibition Threads, War and Conflict was close to my practice, since I research how embroidery can be used to elicit conversations on difficult sociopolitical matters. Participating in the workshop 'Letters to Arpilleristas' was an opportunity to express creativity by making a piece of textile art. Still, at the same time, it was challenging because we knew from the start that the piece was not to be kept for our contemplation. This brief auto-ethnographic essay reflects on needlework, labouriousness, self-care and letting go, with regard to the pieces created at the workshop.