‘It was amazing to see our pupils grow in confidence and skills and put on such a professional and well thought exhibition. I am truly amazed how much they have developed and the work they have produced.’ - Teacher

Lead textile artist — devising and delivering 20 workshops for this year long participatory project culminating in an exhibition at Lowewood Museum + mentoring, exhibition curation, evaluation, creation of a learning resource for schools, 2018/19. (Crochet and Felt Making by invited artists)

A National Lottery Heritage Fund project by The Gifted in partnership with Lowewood Museum, Hertfordshire, and Epping Forest District Museum (Essex) and a team of artists and facilitators, 2018/19.

Borough of Broxbourne, Epping Forest District Council, Heritage Lottery Fund.

All heritage/collection items courtesy of Epping Forest District Museum, Waltham Abbey, Essex and Lowewood Museum, Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire.

During The Clothmaker’s Wings project girls from East Hertfordshire investigated the stories behind different fabrics and textiles, and the women and children who were instrumental to the British textile industry.

This journey has unveiled the conditions that women were subjected to during 1790 -1890, and discovered how women and girls were at the forefront of Hertfordshire's unspoken contribution to the textiles industry.

The project has given an opportunity to share this story, and shine a light on its importance to the Textile Industry's origins. In turn, the participants have learned valuable crafts and skills, exploring Embroidery, Crochet, Straw Plaiting, Felt Making and the use and purpose of 'agricultural smocks', while also researching the museum archives to look at the textiles produced during this time, which include linen, silk and lace work.

Their work, created alongside textile artists of different genres, was displayed in the exhibition together with the collection items they studied and documented during the project — creating an exhibition of historical and local importance at a time when girls and women are still challenging equality, visibility and recognition.

The Gifted is a Hertfordshire based charity that supports young people from the county and neighbouring counties, with personal, social and learning difficulties, through training and development programs that aim to improve their chances of success, happiness, wellbeing, education, connectivity and employment. 

‘The last 10 months has been amazing for me. I have gained so many new skills and my love and passion for textile crafts has grown. I have made new friendships and enjoyed the quiet, interesting workspace of Lowewood Museum. It has taught me so much and I am grateful to everyone involved.' - Participant

‘The project unveiled the little-known history of women’s role in Hertfordshire’s textile industry, by giving women a voice through young women living in the area today who are themselves dealing with complex issues in their daily lives. It was all about female empowerment.’ - The Gifted

The Clothmaker’s Wings digital publication for schools

Creation of this 50 page digital publication showcasing participants’ work and learning from the year long project with crafting instructions included.

All heritage/collection items courtesy of Epping Forest District Museum, Waltham Abbey, Essex and Lowewood Museum, Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire.