Artist Talk and Star Weaving Workshop with Brisbane-based artist Maryann Talia Pau
September 6, 2016 – 6pm to 9pm
Plug In Institute of Contemporary Art presents: One Million Stars, Community Weaving Workshop with Brisbane based artist Maryann Talia Pau
Tuesday September 6th, 6-9pm | Free to all. Materials included, no weaving experience necessary.
Tuesday September 6th from 6-9pm, Plug In Institute of Contemporary Art with Brisbane based artist Maryann Talia Pau will host her community weaving project. This workshop is one of several Pau will be hosting this year while travelling throughout the Commonwealth nations. The initiative began in 2012 as a personal response to the violent death of a young woman near her studio in Brunswick, Melbourne. For Pau, “every woven star is a symbol of light, courage and solidarity to end all forms of violence including violence against women, bullying and racism.” As a communal practice, weaving is often done with others. Mobilizing her personal connection to weaving, Pau is inviting people around the world to help her create one million woven stars for a major installation at the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games. Understanding the shared histories of colonial violence between the commonwealth nations, Pau sees the importance of One Million Stars in creating networks that emphasize resilience and strength. She is looking forward to meeting the people of Winnipeg, creating new connections and sharing her project.
As part of this initiative, Pau and Plug In ICA welcome the public to a star-weaving workshop. The evening will begin with a brief introduction to the project by Pau, and step-by-step weaving instructions. No previous weaving skills are required, all materials will be provided.
Born in Samoa, Pau is known largely for her beautiful, elaborate breastplates, which have been acquired by the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) and exhibited in the Art of the Pacific Gallery, NGV international (2010). These beautifully constructed weavings, called ‘Mana Couture’ or, affectionately, ‘Pasifika Bling’ have been used in fashion, and featured in televised broadcasts including, singing sister’s Vika and Linda Bull, Radio broadcaster Namila Benson, and The Social Studio for L’Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival, 2011.
Plug In ICA gratefully acknowledges the support of the Canada Council for the Arts, the Manitoba Arts Council and Winnipeg Arts Council. We thank the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts for their support of our 2016 and 2017 program, and we extend gratitude to our generous donors, valued members and dedicated volunteers.