June 8th, 2024Freestyle weaving workshops at Clunes

A unique, freestyle form of Japanese artistic weaving will be on display in Clunes this month, from today, June 8 to 23.

The Celebration of SAORI exhibition will bring together over 30 saori artists from across Australia in a colourful celebration of individual creative expression through cloth.

Saori is a creative form of contemporary weaving that originated in Japan, focusing on colour and texture rather than repeatable patterns. The woven items are then made into a range of original garments, wall hangings, soft furnishings and accessories – all of which will be on display at the event.

Clunes resident Prue Simmons, above, one of only three people in Australia accredited to teach this Japanese craft, will be curating and coordinating the exhibition, enabling her students located right across Australia to showcase their original work. The exhibiting artists are part of her online program through her studio Dyeing To Weave, designed to guide and mentor saori artists throughout Australia.

“Saori weaving is actually a moving meditation – you just happen to be making an incredible piece of woven cloth as you do it. Each piece represents a captured moment in time at the loom and an opportunity for self-reflection for the weaver, giving every woven item a story and making each piece completely unique,” Prue said.

Jayne Newgreen, a saori weaver based in Evansford, is looking forward to displaying her work as part of the creative collective. “It’s such a wonderful opportunity to showcase this incredible form of creativity – saori weaving is so relaxing, and I love the freedom that I find at the loom,” Jayne said.

Prue is excited to be hosting the exhibition in the charming historical town that she calls home.

“Clunes has such a rich history of textiles and bringing an exhibition resplendent in colour and creativity will be a wonderful offering for a day trip in early winter.

“With over 50 woven items on display, this is a rare opportunity to view so many saori artists’ work and to learn more about this lesser-known Japanese weaving craft. Lots of beautiful pieces will be on display and for sale.”

There will also be free saori weaving demonstrations, talks and special weaving workshops held during the exhibition for visitors to enjoy.

Link: www.dyeingtoweave.com.au/exhibition

Words & image: Contributed