The Fabric of Our Working Lives

Come and be part of 'The Fabric of our Working Lives' – a creative, hands-on workshop that brings people together to explore and share their work experiences through the art of quilt-making.

The first session will be a relaxed and open discussion where we’ll share experiences and insights around artefactual analysis.  Participants will have the chance to talk about thier background,  interests, and how they relate to the objects and stories we will explore together.

Following a short break participants will be invited to engage in a hands-on activity creating pieces for a collective quilt. We’ll look closely at the objects, illustrations, and photographs participants have brought along to represent their working lives. Together, we’ll reflect on the meaning behind these items and the reasons why they were chosen, the stories that they tell and the emotions and memories that they hold.  

This is your chance to shape how others understand your experiences — to highlight the value of everyday working lives, celebrate personal journeys, and spark curiosity and empathy in those who visit the exhibition.

This workshop is all about connecting communities with research in a meaningful and personal way. Inspired by the ESRC-funded project Being Blue, which looks at the lived experiences of minority ethnic police officers, we’ll use fabric, storytelling, and shared objects to reflect on our own working lives – past or present.

Led by creative and thoughtful methods, the session will guide you in turning memories, experiences, and personal artefacts into pieces of a collective quilt. It’s a chance to express your story, connect with others, and help shape a unique exhibition that speaks to the heart of working life.

No sewing experience needed – just bring your curiosity, your stories, and any objects or photos that represent your work or volunteering journey

Find out more about the Being Blue project: https://le.ac.uk/hate-studies/research/the-being-blue-project

Dr Felipe Moreira, Research Associate, and Dr Claire Davis, Principal Investigator of the Being Blue Research project

This event is open to all and drop-ins are welcome.   We encourage participants to bring along objects or photographs that reflect their working or volunteering lives, however there will be a selection of items available for you to choose from at the event if needed,

We warmly welcome people from all walks of life, with current or past work or volunteering experience to be part of this creative and reflective workshop.