Cross the Line: Creative workshops and masterclasses for London Craft Week

BGKC workshop, @kings_art

‘A line is a dot that went for a walk. A drawing is simply a line going for a walk. Art does not reproduce what we see; rather, it makes us see.’ (Paul Klee, Bauhaus artist)

Stratford Cross, is proud to host five days of creative workshops with UAL London College of Fashion, V&A Academy and Black Girl Knit Club, celebrating imagination and wellbeing. We’ll guide you through the creative practice of ‘taking a line for a walk’, from drawing to embroidery and knitting. Part of the official London Craft Week 2024 programme.

– Drawing:

Students and academics from LCF’s Fashion Imaging and Illustration degree will introduce you to simple and effective ways to put pencil to paper to observe and record the world around you.

– Embroidery:

Meditative stitching led by award-winning textile artist Ekta Kaul, whose artistic practice focuses on exploring places, histories and belonging through stitched maps. In these conscious sessions, Ekta will guide you through the process of using line to create pattern and shape in stitch, taking inspiration from the environment around you.

Ekta Kaul is an award-winning artist based in London. Her artistic practice focuses on exploring places, histories and belonging through stitch and abstract painting. Her work is held in several notable collections including the Museum of London. Crafts Council, the Gunnersbury Museum, Chiswick Library among others. Ekta is the author of the forthcoming book Kantha : Sustainable Textiles and Mindful Making. She lives and works in London.

- Knitting:

Create an accessories braided knit piece or tote bag inspired by the work of BGKC. Attendees will explore a variety of different knit stitches, exploring various yarn textures. Workshops will take place in Endeavour Square next to the current BGKC yarn bomb installation currently at Stratford Cross titled .

BGKC is an East London knitwear collective, started by friends Sicgmone Kludje & Vea Koranteng. Established in 2019 to promote more diversity in craft, creating a safe and inclusive space for black women to gather, unite, and inspire each other through encouraging hand knitting skills. To develop their creativity whilst equipping the next generation with a new skill.

Developing a personal drawing or creative practice is a well-recognised tool supporting improved mental health and wellbeing, mindfulness and processing of life’s daily events.

Surrounded by the nature and vibrancy of the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park (QEOP), ‘Cross the Line’ at Stratford Cross provides the perfect setting to focus the mind and explore creative expression.

Stratford Cross is a cultural workplace destination at the heart of East London, nestled amongst QEOP, East Bank and an array of shopping, dining and art.

Suitable for all skill levels from the very beginner to the experienced practitioner.

• 12:00 - 1:30pm: Lunch time drop in
• 4:30 - 6:00: After work drop in

Journey through Stitch: Join the V&A Academy team for a moment of meditative stitching led by textile artist Ekta Kaul. Ekta will guide you through the process of using lines to create patterns and shapes in stitch while taking inspiration from the environment around you. These relaxing drop-in sessions provide a perfect opportunity to unwind and engage in a thoughtful and creative activity.

• 2:00 - 4:00pm: Master class

Journey Through Stitch Masterclass: In this intimate masterclass, artist Ekta Kaul will share her unique and meaningful approach to creating stitched artwork. The session starts with a walk in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, where you will be able to take inspiration from the textures and shapes found in nature. Ekta will then guide you through the process of translating your found natural elements into stitch, looking closer at patterns and forms, and selecting the right stitches to complete your work. This masterclass offers an excellent opportunity for those who want to learn or improve their stitching skills while being in a peaceful and inspiring environment.

• 12:30 - 1:30pm: Lunch time workshop
• 5:00 - 6:00pm: After work workshop

Join us for a collaborative knitting experience with the BGKC In this one-hour session, participants will have the chance to delve into their knitting abilities and craft a beautiful, knitted necklace and bracelet. We'll explore a range of knit stitches including knit and stocking stitch using a range of bright jersey yarn threads and recycled fabrics.

During the workshop, you'll also learn about the inspiring journey of the BGKC and gain insights into their recently published book, 'Conscious Crafts: Knitting'. It's an opportunity to connect, learn, and create together.

• 2:00 - 4:00pm: Master class

Join us for a delightful 2-hour masterclass with BGKC and create the perfect spring/summer knitted tote bag! In this workshop, participants will immerse themselves in a world of creativity as they explore a range of yarn textures, including jersey and upcycled yarn material.

Participants will explore various knit stitches while working on this textile project. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced knitter, this class welcomes all levels of expertise. All knitting patterns and materials will be provided, offering an enjoyable crafting experience.

• 12:00 - 1:30pm: Lunch time workshop

• 2:00 - 4:00pm: Master class

• 5:00 - 6:00pm: After work workshop

• 12:00 - 1:30pm: Lunch time workshop

• 2:00 - 4:00pm: Master class

• 5:00 - 6:00pm: After work workshop

Taking your mind for a walk with line: Fashion focused mindfulness drawing workshops

Mindfulness involves being fully present and aware of your thoughts, feelings, sensations, and surroundings. Drawing is a powerful tool for cultivating mindfulness because it requires focused attention on the present moment, the lines and shapes being created, and the sensations of the materials being used.

Participate in drawing workshops led by LCF faculty and students as part of London Craft Week. These sessions will involve guided exercises and activities aimed at prompting you to delve into drawing as a mindfulness practice. Through these workshops, you'll gain insight into various drawing techniques, explore diverse materials, and take part in reflective exercises to enhance your comprehension of the link between drawing and mindfulness.

Since fashion is our primary focus, the sessions will revolve around drawing garments. You can either reflect on the garments you're wearing or bring along a garment of your choice to explore. By the end of the session, you'll depart with multiple drawings neatly compiled in a sketchbook. This will serve as a tangible reminder and tool for continuing your drawing journey and practicing mindfulness through creative expression.

• 11:00am - 12:00pm: Knitting workshop with Black Girl Knit Club

• 12:30 - 1:30pm: Knitting workshop with Black Girl Knit Club

• 2:00 - 3:30pm: Drawing workshop with UAL London College of Fashion
• 3:30 - 5:00pm: Drawing workshop with UAL London College of Fashion

Event Venue

Stratford Cross, Endeavour Square, London, United Kingdom