CONNECTING
SCHEDULE & ADMISSION INFORMATION
FREE
EVENTS
INFO
ARTIST
WORKSHOP
INFO
VOLUNTEER
WORKSHOP
INFO
Admission Options for The 2025 The Recycle Challenge Parade & Festival General Admission: Admission is Free with RSVP: Participants are invited to attend the workshop at no cost, but must RSVP in advance to secure their spot. To RSVP, participants are encouraged to bring recyclables (e.g., old fabric, cardboard, magazines) to contribute to the workshop materials, fostering a sense of community and sustainability. to seeing you!
Artist Workshops: Pricing: $100.00 to $250.00 These specialized workshops grant participants deeper insights and advanced techniques in upcycling art. Fees vary based on the workshop’s focus and duration. Affordable options are designed to cater to different skill levels while helping sustain the workshops. Pass It Forward: Supporting Future Participants: For those who can afford the Master Workshops, a portion of the fee will directly fund future scholarships, allowing individuals from low-income backgrounds to attend workshops for free or at a discounted rate. We appreciate your generosity and support in creating inclusive opportunities for all to engage in upcycling art. Cancellation Policy: Free RSVPs: If you need to cancel, please notify us at least 48 hours in advance to allow others the opportunity to attend. Master Workshops: Full refund if cancellation occurs at least 7 days prior to the workshop date. No refunds for cancellations made within 7 days, though you may transfer your ticket to someone else. For any questions or to register, please contact therecyclechallenge1@gmail.com at (347) 735-1257. Thank you for your interest in supporting upcycled art and creating a positive impact in the community! We look forward to seeing you!
For Volunteer Opportunities: Indicate your interest in volunteering while completing your RSVP.
By purchasing a ticket to an Artist Workshop, you show your love to someone to attend for free!
We Love
Making People Happy!
FREE ACTIVITIES & WORKSHOPS
DYI WORKSHOPS
VOLUNTEERING AT
WELCOME HOME FARM
Welcome Home Farm Volunteer Experience
Join us at Welcome Home Farm for an enriching volunteer experience! We invite individuals of all ages to participate and learn through a diverse range of hands-on projects that support sustainable agriculture and community growth. Simply sign up for your preferred experience, and we’ll handle the rest!
This Year’s Event:
As part of The Recycle Challenge Parade and Festival, we are proud to focus on volunteerism in partnership with Welcome Home Farm. This is a wonderful opportunity to engage with the community and make a positive impact!
As part of The Recycle Challenge Parade and Festival, we are proud to focus on volunteerism in partnership with Welcome Home Farm.
Select Your Path of Volunteerism
This is a wonderful opportunity to engage with the community and make a positive impact!
Volunteers are empowered to curate their own volunteer experiences by selecting areas that resonate with their personal interests and passions. This approach enhances engagement and fulfillment, as individuals choose initiatives that reflect their values. For instance, a volunteer might focus on participating in farm clean-up, deweeding, and or planting, or they might choose to work on building a greenhouse utilizing recycled materials. By allowing volunteers to select their paths, organizations foster a more impactful and enjoyable volunteering experience.
A Week of Community Build Activities and Volunteerism:
Dates:
Tuesday, April 15 , 2025 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday, April 16, 2025 Special community build Greenhouse
Planning and implementation
Community & The Recycle Challenge Team
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Thursday, April 17, 2025 Special community build Greenhouse
Implementation/ Schedule next sessions
Community & The Recycle Challenge Team
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Friday, April 18, 2025 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Saturday, April 19, 2025 10:00 PM - 1:00 PM
What to Bring:
-
Comfortable clothing, including long sleeves to help repel mosquitoes
-
Sturdy footwear
-
Reusable water bottle
-
Sunscreen and hat for sun protection
-
Any personal gardening tools (if preferred)
Contact Upon Arrival:
Before your scheduled volunteer time with Welcome Home Farm you will receive a confirmation on your time(s), dates and what area you want to work.
If you have questions regarding the day’s activities and an answer will be returned.
Thank you for being part of our community—we can’t wait to have you join us in bringing our farm to life during this special event!
_edited.jpg)
.jpg)
"FREE" ACTIVITIES & WORKSHOPS
NEW ORLEANS HEALING CENTER
INTENTION SALON
Sponsored by Healthnutt Systems
Costume & Clothing Swap, Intro to Mending Crafting Sessions & Vendors
THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2025
START TIME: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
DESCRIPTION:
THE INTENTION SALON at the New Orleans Healing Center incorporates spending intentional time with the community. Date: April 17, 2025 Time: 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM Location: New Orleans Healing Center Theme: Community, creativity, sustainability, and self-expression I. Introduction 4:00 PM - 4:15 PM: Registration and Welcome Costume & Clothing Swaps participants sign and set up Check-in and create name tags. Overview of the event schedule and layout. Welcome speech by the event host or organizer. Available and set-up with Drinks, Desserts & Refreshments / Socializing Light snacks and beverages served. Opportunity for participants to mingle, network, share creations, and discuss their experiences at different workshops. II. Costume and Clothing Swap 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Costume and Clothing Swap Location: Designated swap area within the Healing Center. Guidelines for participation: Attendees are encouraged to bring gently used costumes, clothing, and accessories to swap. Clear instructions for the swapping process and etiquette. Volunteers will be available to assist with organizing and managing the swap. Ideas to enhance creativity and express individuality through attire. III. Crafting Sessions 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Rotating Crafting Workshops Workshop Schedule: Attendees can rotate between different crafting sessions. Each session will last approximately 30 minutes. Crocheting with Plastic: Time: 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM or stay in area Description: Learn to crochet using repurposed plastic bags. Participants can bring their own bags or we can provide. We will demonstrate how to start a basic chain stitch in beginner crochet. Facilitator: Carissa Chin, a local artist of The Recycle Challenge - Collabor8 Cooperative & Welcome Home Farm - Volunteer Coordinator. Creating Costumes with Aluminum: Time: 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM or stay in area Description: Explore creative options for making costumes using aluminum foil and other recyclable materials. Whimsical design encouraged! Facilitator: Joy, local artist. Crafting Clothing with Paper/Cardboard Hats: Time: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM or stay in area Description: Discover how to create unique clothing accessories with paper through folding, cutting, and decoration techniques. Facilitator(s): Team Leader, Reuben Craddock, fabricator with The Recycle Challenge, and TBA artist. Intention Jars: Time: 8:00 PM - 8:30 PM Description: Participants will craft intention jars, personal vessels to hold their goals, affirmations, or wishes. Materials: Assorted jars, decorative materials (paints, markers, ribbons), and guidance on setting intentions. Facilitator: Mindfulness or wellness coach. Open Crafting Space: Time: 8:30 PM - 9:00 PM Description: An open area for attendees to continue crafting, experiment, or work on their own projects using materials from earlier sessions. IV.Closing Circle 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Intention Sharing and Reflection Gather participants for a closing circle. Sharing time for participants to express their intentions or reflections on their creations. Guided meditation or communal blessing to seal intentions. Acknowledgments to participants and volunteers; encourage feedback for future events.
NIGERIA'S HAT ONLINE SALON
WEALTH TO TRASH SALON
Zoom Discussion - How Nigeria's Hat Maker's Create Trash To Wealth
TUESDAY, APRIL 22, 2025
TIME: CST 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Nigeria 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
DESCRIPTION:
Event Title: Nigeria's Milliner’s Create Hats from Trash to Wealth Date: April 22, 2025 Time: CST Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Nigeria Time: 4:00 AM - 5:00 PM Description: Join us for an engaging one-hour discussion titled "Nigeria's Trash to Wealth," featuring President, Folake Okunaiya of the Milliners Association of Nigeria, alongside facilitator Madera Rogers. This free experience is open to anyone interested in exploring how the Milliners Association has transformed their approach to sustainability through The Recycle Challenge, now in its fourth year. What to Expect: Delve into pressing issues surrounding Nigeria's waste management crisis. Hear first-hand accounts from innovative hat makers who have improved their lives through recycling and upcycling practices. Meet some of the winners of this year's online hat competition, showcasing their creative and sustainable designs. Discover impactful ways in which creativity and environmental responsibility are paving the path to economic empowerment and a cleaner future for communities across Nigeria. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a vital conversation!
PONTILLY COFFEE
SOUL FULL SALON
Sponsored by Healthnutt Systems
Community Stories, Workshops, Panel Discussions, & Recycled to Upcycled Fashion Shows
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 27, 2025
TIME: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
DESCRIPTION:
SOUL FULL SALON connects : community, consciousness, and creativity. Date: April 27, 2025 Location: Pontilly Coffee Hosts: Project Possible & The Recycle Challenge Description: Join us for an engaging evening at SOUL FULL SALON, an innovative event designed to inspire and educate the community. Featuring thought-provoking panel discussions led by experts in their fields, this event will delve into critical issues such as Louisiana Redistricting and Environmental Injustice, while also emphasizing the power of community storytelling. We’ll explore the intersection of beauty, health, and sustainability with Dr. Kendra Andrus, and attendees can enjoy unique mini-fashion shows showcasing recycled and upcycled clothing from talented artists like Agape Pennywell. Health-conscious vendors will also be on hand, offering everything from yoga sessions to personal consultations. Celebrate community resilience through truthful narratives, hopeful aspirations, and creativity as we work toward a brighter, sustainable future! Event Schedule & Elements: Welcome & Registration Time: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Attendees check in, enjoy refreshments, and network. Opening Remarks Time: 5:00 PM - 5:15 PM Pastor (Melvin) Introduced by leaders of Project Possible and The Recycle Challenge, providing an overview of the event's purpose and agenda. Panel Discussion 1: Louisiana Redistricting Time: 5:15 PM - 6:15 PM Moderator: Dr. Dorothy Naime Topics Covered: Understanding the redistricting process in Louisiana, its implications on communities, and civic engagement strategies. Community Storytelling Segment: A few selected community members will share personal stories and experiences related to redistricting, highlighting both challenges and hope. Audience Q&A: 6:00 PM - 6:15 PM (15 minutes). Mini Fashion Show 1: Recycled & Upcycled Fashion Time: 6:15 PM - 6:35 PM A showcase of unique designs by local and others, featuring clothing made from recycled materials to promote sustainability in fashion. Community Storytelling: Panel Discussion - Environmental Injustice & Voices of Hope Time: 6:35 PM - 7:30 PM A curated storytelling segment where community members share uplifting and hopeful narratives about their experiences with environmental justice, health, and beauty. Stories emphasize resilience and collective action for a brighter future. Panelists: Local activists and environmentalists discussing the impact of environmental policies on marginalized communities and pathways to equity. Audience Q&A: 7:30 PM - 7:45 PM (15 minutes). Health & Wellness Segment: Beauty & Health Insights Time: 7:45 PM - 8:45 PM Speaker: Dr. Kendra Andrus Topics Covered: Holistic health practices, beauty standards, the importance of mental health and self-care, and their environmental implications. Audience Q&A: 8:45pm - 9:00pm Vendor Marketplace & Networking Time: 6:15 PM - 9:00 PM Health-conscious vendors will share insights into wellness practices, including yoga, nutrition, and personal consultations. Attendees can engage with vendors, learn, and shop sustainable products. Conclusion: SOUL FULL SALON aims to be a catalyst for meaningful dialogue and action within the community, uniting diverse voices to address critical social issues while celebrating creativity and sustainable practices. Through the power of storytelling and shared experiences, we aspire to uplift and inspire one another as we work toward a sustainable and hopeful future for all! Join us for this transformative evening that nourishes both the soul and the environment!
ATTRACTIONS
YOUR BAD RECYCLING EFFORTS SHOW & BUFFET
(BURLESQUE)
LOCATION: THE THREE MUSES FAUBOURG HOUSE - FRENCH QUARTER
FRIDAY, APRIL18 & 25, 2025, and
MAY 2, 2025
SHOWTIME: 10:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Sponsored by HEALTHNUT SYSTEM
Dr. Kendra Andrus
DESCRIPTION:
Your Bad Effort Recycling Show & Buffet Dates: Friday, April 18, 25, & May 2, 2025 Time: 10:30 pm - 1:00 am Description: We welcome you to our French Quarter living room for an enchanting evening at The Three Muses Faubourg House on Friday, April 19, 2025! This exciting event is a collaboration between The Three Muses Faubourg House and The Recycle Challenge, merging the arts with environmental awareness in a vibrant celebration. Experience the captivating "Your Bad Recycling Efforts Show and Buffet," a dazzling presentation featuring the world of burlesque for our first series in April to May. Our talented performers will entertain you with cheeky routines and stunning costumes crafted from repurposed materials, proving that creativity knows no bounds, all while enjoying lively music performances that will keep your spirits high throughout the night. Come celebrate creativity, community, and sustainability with us. Admission:$100.00 cover charge includes the buffet; reservations, drinks, and fun! Discount for all locals. Event Highlights: Burlesque Show: Kick-Off Performer Prin. Enjoy a unique and playful performance that celebrates body positivity and self-expression. Music Performance: Get ready to groove to live music that resonates with the heart and soul of our community. Buffet Served: Savor a delicious communal buffet prepared by our guest chef, Sophie Lee, featuring a delicious Korean Creole menu. Enjoy a culinary feast made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that showcase the rich flavors of New Orleans. (The Three Muses Faubourg House Menu) Ticket Price: $100.00 per person Local Discount Pass Available For further information on tickets, or the show or general questions you may contact or text Lycia at (504) 875-8698 or Madera at (347) 735-1257. Don't miss out on this unforgettable night of entertainment, food, and community spirit! Location: The Three Muses Faubourg House - French Quarter 536 Frenchmen St., New Orleans 70116
CRAFTING WORKSHOPS BEFORE PARADE
LOCATION: THE THREE MUSES FAUBOURG HOUSE - FRENCH QUARTER
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30, 2025
TIME: 12:00 NOON - 5:00 PM
DESCRIPTION:
Crafting Workshops Salons Get ready for a day of creativity and community as we host Crafting Workshops Salons! These workshops allow participants to learn how to create stunning costumes using various recyclable materials, making it a perfect opportunity to prepare for the upcoming Recycle Parade. Workshop Details: Date: Wednesday, April 30, 2024 Time: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM Location: 536 Frenchmen Street, The Three Muses Faubourg House During these hands-on workshops, community members of all ages will explore different crafting techniques, guided by a variety of talented artists. Participants will have the chance to create: Cardboard Hats: Learn to design and decorate unique hats using recycled cardboard, adding personality and flair to your parade ensemble. Costumes from Plastic: Discover innovative ways to repurpose plastic materials into fun and festive costumes that highlight sustainability. Paper Creations: Engage in crafting vibrant costumes made from paper, exploring various techniques to achieve striking designs. Artist Assistance: Various artists will be available throughout the day to assist with different types of crafting experiences. Whether you need guidance in technique, design ideas, or inspiration, our talented artists are here to help bring your vision to life. These workshops are not only a fun way to prepare for the parade; they also emphasize the importance of recycling and upcycling in our creative processes. Join Us for a Day of Preparation! Come join your neighbors and unleash your creativity as we work together to make memorable costumes for our Recycle Parade. No previous crafting experience is necessary—just bring your enthusiasm and ideas! For more information or to reserve your spot in the workshops, please contact Madera Rogers-Henry for details or registration instructions]. Let’s make this a memorable day of crafting and community spirit!
SMART ART OF TRASH WALKING PARADE
LOCATION: THE THREE MUSES FAUBOURG HOUSE - FRENCH QUARTER
WEDNESDAY APRIL 30, 2025
PREP TIME:4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
START TIME: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
DESCRIPTION:
The Recycle Parade is an engaging community event designed to promote environmental awareness and inspire participants to embrace sustainable practices. This lively parade brings together individuals, families, and local organizations to celebrate recycling and sustainability through creative floats, costumes, and performances. Event Details: Date: April 30, 2025 Time: 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Starting Location: The Three Muses Faubourg House 536 Frenchmen Street, French Quarters Ending Location: New Orleans Healing Center, 2372 St. Claude Ave., New Orleans Join Us for the Neighborhood Parade! We invite participants of all ages to join us in this neighborhood celebration, featuring a vibrant brass band to set the tone for a festive atmosphere. Become a Krewe Member: Cost: $30.00 for adults; Cost:$15.00 for youth Your contributions will help cover costs associated with the City of New Orleans, as well as expenses for the band and performers. Costume Creation: We encourage all Krewe members to get creative by designing costumes made from any type of recyclable materials! Use items such as plastic, paper, newspaper, tin cans, and more to showcase your ingenuity and commitment to sustainability. Let your imagination shine as you transform everyday trash into eye-catching parade attire. Krewe members pass allows them to participate in the month-long activities are also encouraged to arrive early to enjoy pre-parade festivities, live music, and craft stations focused on recycling and upcycling. The parade will showcase a variety of themed costumes, and performances, including local artists and community groups dedicated to raising awareness of sustainability. Join us for a day of fun, creativity, and community spirit as we come together to make a positive impact on the environment! For more information or to become a Krewe member, see the options: *Send questions to: therecyclechallenge1@gmail.com *Sign-up & register online * Or call (347) 735-1257.
GROUP ART EXHIBITION
"CONNECTING US 2 TRASH"
Opening of Group Art Exhibition
March 31, 2025 - May 1, 2025
____________________________________________
Artist Panel Discussion (In-Person/ Zoom):
Consumerism and It's Relationship To Trash
March 31, 2025 Time: 6 PM-7 PM
Introduction Art Panel & Online Exhibition Title: “CONNECTING US 2 TRASH” Show Opening Date: March 25, 2025 - May 1, 2025 March 31, 2025 Group Panel Discussion: "Consumerism and Its Relationship to Trash" Time: 6 PM - 7 PM Location: New Orleans Healing Center Join us for the official opening of our impactful group art exhibition, “CONNECTING US 2 TRASH”, which discusses consumerism and the residue of trash," running from March 18 to May 1, 2025. This exhibition aims to illuminate the connections between human consumerism and the resulting waste, demonstrating how what we often dismiss as trash can be properly valued as a resource. Through the creative perspectives of various artists, the show illustrates the transformative potential of discarded materials when seen through a lens of sustainability and innovation. On March 25, participate in our panel discussion with some of the featured artists in the show, and curator Madera Rogers-Henry, with: (New Orleans Artists) Adam Farrington, Jessica Strahan, Josh Hailey, (Kolaj Institute) Ric Kasini Kadour, (Le Mysterium Art Collective) Rodney Griffin, Rosemarie O’Connell, and Shakiem “Paradoxx” Rodes (Milliner’s Association of Nigeria) Selected hats, (Atlanta) , Agape Jasmine Pennywell. Together, they will engage in a vital conversation about environmental responsibility and the reimagining of waste within our culture. Join us at the New Orleans Healing Center to inspire your thoughts and actions as we confront and reflect on these critical themes through creativity and collaboration. This is a free event for the general public, attendees are asked to bring their clean recyclables, along with sampling light beverages and desserts.
ARTIST WORKSHOPS
2-DAYS REVIVE & THRIVE: UPCYCLING FASHION & PARADE
CONNECTING US TO UPCYCLING
DAY-1 MONDAY, APRIL 28, 2025
TIME: 11:00 AM - 4:30 PM
SEAMSTRESS WILL BE ONSITE
LOCATION:THE RECYCLE CHALLENGE
__________________________
IN STUDIO - APRIL 29, 2025
DAY-2 APRIL 30, 2025
TIME: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
SEAMSTRESS WILL BE ONSITE
TIME: 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Gathering on Frenchmen Street
Prep for Photo Shoot & Fashion Show Participants
TIME: 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Band arrives Parade Begins on Frenchman Stree
Route to be announced.
7: 30 PM: Social & Dinner
(Location: TBA)
LOCATION:THE THREE MUSES FAUBOURG HOUSE
DESCRIPTION:
Workshop Title: Revive & Thrive: Upcycling Fashion Workshop Dates: April 28, 2025, and April 30, 2025 Time: 11:00 AM - 4:30 PM Locations: Day 1: April 28, 2025 - The Recycle Challenge - Offices Day 2: April 30, 2025 - The Three Muses Faubourg House Introduction to Agape Penny Well We are thrilled to welcome Agape Penny Well as the lead artist for the "Revive & Thrive: Upcycling Fashion Workshop." With a passion for sustainable fashion and a keen eye for innovation, Agape has dedicated her career to transforming the fashion landscape through the art of upcycling. A talented designer and artist, Agape blends creativity with environmental consciousness, crafting stunning pieces from discarded materials. Her work not only showcases her exceptional skill but also serves as a powerful statement about the importance of sustainability in the fashion industry. Agape has been featured in numerous exhibitions and fashion shows, where she emphasizes the potential of repurposed materials to spark creativity and drive change. Overview Join us for the Revive & Thrive Upcycling Workshop, a hands-on experience dedicated to transforming unwanted clothing into stylish, unique pieces! This two-day workshop invites fashion enthusiasts of all levels to explore their creativity while promoting sustainable fashion practices. Participants will engage in a variety of activities, including selecting materials, learning sewing techniques, and preparing for a fashion show to present their creations. Day One: Monday, April 28, 2025 Location: The Recycle Challenge Offices 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM: Welcome & Introduction Overview of workshop goals and agenda Introduction of facilitators and participants Introduction of seamstress(es) for the session Discussion on the importance of upcycling and sustainability in fashion 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM: Upcycling 101 Presentation on upcycling concepts, techniques, and potential project ideas Overview of tools and materials needed for upcycling clothing Tips for selecting pieces from your wardrobe or The Recycle Challenge Resource room 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM: Resource Room Tour Guided tour of The Recycle Challenge Resource room Participants choose items they’d like to work on and brainstorm project ideas 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Lunch Break Healthy snacks and refreshments provided Informal networking among participants 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM: Hands-On Upcycling Session Participants begin working on their chosen projects Facilitators available for guidance and assistance Creative expression and experimentation with various techniques (e.g., seamstress or two available for hand and machine sewing, embellishing) Day Two: Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Location: French Quarter (waiting to confirm) 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM: Travel to French Quarter 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM: Wrap-Up and Reflection Group sharing session: participants present their projects and share insights Discuss the fashion experience for the evening and next day Cover future upcycling projects and sustainable fashion practices Organize studio time from 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM for additional work on projects 3:30 PM - 4:00 PM: Showcase Preparation Finalize projects and prepare for showcasing creations Brief discussion on fashion presentation and storytelling 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Dinner Break 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Prep for Photo Shoot & Fashion Show Parade Participants practice presenting their upcycled pieces in a mini-fashion show format Makeup preparation and models/designers trying on outfits Tips on engaging the audience and showcasing fashions 7:00 PM - 7:45 PM: Fashion Show on Frenchman Street Featuring music, stilt walker, and fire performer Participants continue refining their upcycled pieces with facilitator support Opportunity for additional creative exploration and collaboration with fellow participants Come and discover the art of upcycling—revive your old clothes, thrive in your creativity! This workshop is not only a chance to refresh your wardrobe but also an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and contribute to a more sustainable future in fashion.
FABRIC & COLLAGE SOCIAL: STORYTELLING THROUGH FOUND OBJECTS
CONNECTING US TO UPCYCLING
DATE: SATURDAY, APRIL 26, 2025 TIME:5:00 PM- 7:00 PM
LOCATION: TBA
DESCRIPTION:
SALON OF STORYTELLING Through Found Objects Join us for a transformative three-hour activity titled "Storytelling Through Found Objects," where creativity, memory, and connection converge. This unique event will feature an engaging panel discussion followed by a hands-on workshop, designed to explore the narrative power of everyday items and the stories they hold. Event Structure: 1. Panel Discussion (1 hour)and (2 hours crafting session) Date: April 26, 2025 Time(s): 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM Location: TBA Description: A panel of artists, craft enthusiasts, and storytellers will share their insights on the significance of found objects in storytelling and memory. They will discuss the emotional connections we forge with personal items and how mending, sewing, and repurposing can breathe new life into cherished belongings. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with panelists through a Q&A session, exploring themes of loss, transformation, and creativity. 2. Hands-On Workshop (2 hours) Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Description: Following the panel, participants will dive into a hands-on crafting session where they will be guided to create meaningful pieces inspired by their own memories and experiences. The workshop will include the following activities: Mending: Participants will learn basic and advanced techniques for mending clothing or textile items that hold sentimental value. By repairing these objects, attendees will not only revive their physical form but also honor the memories associated with them. Sewing: Using found materials, participants will engage in sewing projects that combine functionality with storytelling. Whether it’s creating memory pouches, fabric collages, or other textile art, each piece will reflect personal narratives tied to the items used. Repurposing Personal Items: Participants are encouraged to bring in personal items that evoke significant memories, such as clothing, fabric scraps, or trinkets. Guided by facilitators, attendees will repurpose these items into new creations, exploring the connection between loss and renewal through craftsmanship. Goals of the Activity: Foster a sense of community through shared stories and creative expression. Encourage participants to reflect on their personal histories and the objects that hold meaning. Provide skills and techniques in mending, sewing, and repurposing to enrich participants' crafting toolkits. This enriching experience blends storytelling, artistry, and memory, inviting participants to explore their narratives through the lenses of mending and creation. Join us to celebrate the power of found objects and the stories they inspire!
1-DAY & Day PREP COLLAGING FABRIC STORIES WITH ARTIST AGAPE
CONNECTING US TO COLLAGING
DAY - 1 TUESDAY, APRIL 29, 2025
TIME:11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
STUDIO TIME: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
LOCATION: THE RECYCLE CHALLENGE
___________________________
DAY - 2 TUESDAY MAY 1, 2025
APRIL 29, 2025
STUDIO TIME: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
LOCATION: THE RECYCLE CHALLENGE
___________________________
See “Free“ Art Social & Panel
WEDNESDAY, MAY 1, 2025
TIME: 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
DESCRIPTION:
Workshop Title: Collaging Fabric Stories: with Artist Agape Duration: 1-Day Workshop + Half Day Preparation for Show Dates: April 29, 2025 (Workshop), May 1, 2025 (Preparation for Show) Time: 11:00 AM - 5:30 PM (April 29), 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM (May 1) Overview Join celebrated artist Agape for a transformative two-day workshop where participants will immerse themselves in the world of "The Hooligans," a stunning textile collection that pays homage to African diaspora traditions and storytelling. Through hands-on activities, discussions, and creative projects, participants will learn to blend personal narratives with rich cultural heritage while repurposing materials in innovative ways. The workshop aims to ask each participant to create a collection representing their own ancestral connection. Day 1: Workshop - April 29, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Introduction to Agape and "The Hooligans" Overview of Agape’s artistic vision and the significance of mask-making and quilt storytelling in African traditions. Presentation on the intricate symbolism present in "The Hooligans" collection and its cultural context. 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Artistic Demonstration Agape demonstrates techniques used in creating her fabrics, focusing on symbolism and storytelling through textile art. Participants begin to brainstorm and create ideas around their personal narratives. 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Lunch Break 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Interactive Workshop: Crafting Personal Narratives Participants bring personal items or fabrics that hold meaning for them. Guided exercises on reimagining these heirlooms using various textile techniques, such as patching, quilting, and dyeing. Discussion on the importance of storytelling through fabric, connecting individual narratives to collective histories. 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Collaborative Creation: "The Hooligan Spirit" Guest artist discusses ideas around “what does each participant's 'hooligan' represent?” Participants work in small groups to create their own type of “hooligan” collective piece incorporating elements from each member’s personal story. Focus on themes of community and resilience, with Agape guiding the process and encouraging innovative uses of materials. 5:00 PM - 5:30 PM: Evening Reflection Group sharing session where participants discuss their creations and the symbolism they wish to express. Reflection on the workshop experience, its connection to heritage and identity, and how textile art serves as a means of storytelling. Unveiling of each individual's creations. 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Preparing Art Show & Studio Time Reflection on the workshop experience and its connection to heritage and identity. Finishing works of art for the Art Show viewing. Participants turn in titles of featured artwork(s), cost, story work, materials used, bio, and self-photo. The show will be up until May. Preparing for a community discussion. Day 2: Preparation for Show - May 1, 2025 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM: Preparing Art Show & Closing Ceremony - Social Gathering Unveiling of each individual's creations. Reflection on the workshop experience and its connection to heritage and identity. Art Show viewing. Community discussion with participants and Agape on how to incorporate upcycling, recycling, and implementing ways to reduce waste in landfills. Identifying lessons learned into everyday life, furthering the mission of storytelling through recycling for art's sake. Explore additional hands-on practice and personal projects with guidance from Agape. Opportunity for individual feedback and discussion on participants' future artistic endeavors. Target Audience: Aspiring artists, textile enthusiasts, storytellers, and individuals seeking personal expression through craftsmanship. This workshop is designed for participants of all skill levels, encouraging creativity and collective exploration. Additional Notes: All materials for the workshop will be provided, but participants are encouraged to bring personal fabrics or items that resonate with their individual narratives. At the end of the workshop, participants will have the opportunity to share their experiences and discuss future artistic endeavors with Agape. End of Workshop.
PAST EVENTS
US
