On KAIL Learning Day, Sunday, April 27, 2014 KAIL held a workshop on Arpillera (the quilting art for social change). Since morning, KAIL House, which located in the village of Cigarukgak women from around the place gathered together. They enthusiastically participated in the workshop which was held regularly once a month. Approximately 10 housewives attended the workshop.
The event was facilitated by Melly, KAIL Program Coordinator and Selly Agustina, KAIL Facilitator. After the opening by Melly, the activities was continued with an explanation of what is arpillera by Selly who also part of KAIL creative team. The explanation started with the explanation of the history of arpillera i.e. as a form of protest of mothers and wives, whose husband and sons were victims of state violence by General Auguste Pinochet of Chile. At that time arpillera can be a media for trauma healing, delivering secret messages, and channeling negative feelings. The difference of arpillera from the normal patchwork is the meaning behind the art work by creator.
After a brief explanation of arpillera, Selly then invited participants to practice directly how to make arpillera. No special sewing expertise needed in making arpillera. We just need willingness, thoroughness and patience in making it. Women is usually familiar with sewing work. They look very excited and pour their ideas into the design, forming a pattern and then stitch it patiently. Since many participants were old mother, the only difficulty they faced was how to put the thread the needle hole, when the hole is very small.
Two hours passed very fast. Before the event was over, the facilitators invited the participants to share stories about the meaning and message in their work. Most of them depict rural scenery with trees or other feminine things related to their daily lives as mothers. Although some participants seemed very shy to tell their stories, however a sense of pride from them can be seen clearly.
Finally, the workshop was closed with a group photo of all participants and KAIL staffs.
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