I loved teaching this embroidery workshop (the first workshop ever) at inclusive art haven Junior High Los Angeles

Company: Junior High Los Angeles
Project: A Jem-broidery Workshop
My role: Teacher, curriculum planner, materials gatherer, textile steward, facilitator, thread untangler

Junior High Los Angeles is an incredible nonprofit community art space that is inclusive, accessible and sparkles with beautiful energy. Director Faye Orlove is a gem. And speaking of “Jem,” I had the great honor of teaching their first workshop — on “Jem-broidery”! (I had recently participated in a Jem-themed textiles art show, so I was inspired.)

Folks were a little shy at first, since this was our first time meeting. By the end of the workshop, we were following each other’s Instagrams and sharing our art. One participant had just moved to LA, and this was the first neighborhood activity she’d ventured to try. Lots of firsts for everyone in the room made it special and sacred. I’m proud to have facilitated. The materials and work reflected this newly emerging community.

The art show inspiration
I do want to reassure you that I am mindful of licensed characters and artist credit, and would probably navigate this a bit differently today (this art show had creator blessings, but my work was based on an animation cell, and if I did it again, I would base it on an original drawing made by me). We live and learn!