Crafting the Creek
Crafting, a set of time-honored processes often rooted in collective making, provides low-key opportunities to relax and connect with people, and creates a welcoming learning environment.
The Crafting the Creek project invites people to several "learnshops" that include creek-related crafting and informal presentations about Newtown Creek, its history as a former industrial hub, and the devastating results of two centuries of disregard for the Creek’s ecosystems. Learnshops are free, although donations will be gratefully accepted!
Since wildlife is slowly returning to the Creek, the focus will be on hopeful aspects of its story. We’ll learn how these environmental themes and related materials such as dried creek grasses, creek water, and objects found at the shore can inspire crafting.
The project culminates with an exhibition of my work, as well as work from the learnshops. Crafting the Creek is part of my SLUDGE project.
More details are coming! You can follow me on instagram @atreeilove for updates, too.
Cordage made from cordgrass (spartina alterniflora) growing at the creek, placed on hand-dyed indigo cotton.
Photo: Priscilla Stadler
Labcoat for ONC [the Oracle of Newtown Creek] hand-embroidered map of creek.
Photo: Diana Robinson
Artifacts: Necklace 1
Photo: Priscilla Stadler
Thank You!
Crafting the Creek is supported by funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, Statewide Community Regrants Program (formerly the Decentralization program) with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature, and administered by Flushing Town Hall.
Crafting the Creek is made possible with public funds from the Queens Arts Fund, a re-grant program supported by New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council and administered by New York Foundation for the Arts.
