Story Shields Workshop by Featured Artist, LaKaye Mbah

Saturday, February 18

1:00pm-4:00pm

Ages: Middle School Students-Adult

Arts on Main is excited to host a workshop by one of our February Black History Month featured artists, LaKaye Mbah. During this workshop, we will build a visual language based on our shared experiences, as well as what makes us unique as individuals. Together, we will:

• Discuss West African textiles and the history behind the creation of Story Shields
• Develop a shared visual language for the workshop participants
• Create story shields based on our shared visual language
• Apply finishing touches that make each story shield unique

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Story Shields are wearable artworks featuring symbols and shapes chosen to display the personal mythology of the wearer. They are inspired by cultural dances, ancient Igbo motifs, and Yoruba decorative techniques. By sharing the knowledge of my heritage, I hope to inspire others to seek information about their ancestry and feel empowered to embrace who they are and where they came from.

Your Story Shield will be a visual representation of your individuality while also appreciating what makes us similar. This workshop will be a wonderful bonding experience to share with your children, siblings, parents, and friends, as well as a unique solo experience to guide you through celebrating what makes you unique. Participants are encouraged to bring items of significance, such as brooches, single earrings, favorite fabric swatches, buttons, photos, beads, etc. Use your own history and create a story shield that expresses your individuality.

Cost of class is $30 per student.

Registration deadline is Thursday, February 16 by 5pm.