Impolite Women in Art with Sugar May

Reclaiming art histories of the marginalized through expressive needlework. Age 18+

Ongoing, every other Saturday: times vary. $30.

Attendees must pre-register here: https://www.catalystartscollaborative.com/service-page/impolite-women-in-art-sat-times-vary

This biweekly group is an opportunity to learn about and discuss the often-overlooked history of women’s, BIPOC, and queer contributions to art, whilst we work on individual embroidery squares in a freeform, expressive way.

In each session, we'll learn embroidery techniques while cultivating an empowered and cheeky energy, in a space that is safe and inclusive. Students will be encouraged to share their art experience and explore the collective legacy and future of underrepresented artists.

In this casual, conversational setting, participants will add to their embroidery pieces at their own pace, with the option to contribute their finished patches to a community quilt.

Participants will learn fundamental embroidery techniques and explore a variety of discussion topics, including:
- The history and gender implications of textile works
- Famous and not so famous female/queer/BIPOC textile artists
- The way these groups have been written out of history
- The political nature of female/queer/BIPOC textile art
- The 'Problematic Woman' Legacy
- Witching history
- Domesticity
- Bodily expression, using the female form and autobiography to heal and express
- Costuming and fashion
- Empowerment
- Symbols, codes, and secret messages

All materials will be provided by Catalyst or your instructor. Optional to bring:
- Special hoop, thread, floss, needles, or fabric that you might want to incorporate

About your instructor:
Sugar May is a British American multi-media artist and life model, with a special emphasis on comics. She works in a 1940s/50s vintage aesthetic, and is dedicated to exploring and supporting themes in and around the female experience. Originally trained in London (hair and makeup design), her various works and performances have seen her both on screen, behind the scenes, in galleries, on stage, and in collaboration with the BBC, Disney, Marvel, DC, Netflix and more.

Ages 18+ are welcome! Registration is $30. Pre-register here: https://www.catalystartscollaborative.com/service-page/impolite-women-in-art-sat-times-vary