Create A Memento Monogram In Reclaimed Needlework with Louise Saxton

Join artist Louise Saxton in this hands-on workshop, where she will share her passion for reimagining vintage and antique needlework, made in and for the home in past eras.

In this class participants will make a reclaimed needlework ‘memento monogram’, using the initial of someone’s first name. It may be your own initial or that of someone you wish to remember. Embroidery and lace are imbued with intimacy and profound personal meaning for both the maker and the receiver and by reclaiming discarded and disinherited needlework, your monogram will also hold personal meaning for you and for the one it remembers.

Louise Saxton is a Melbourne (NAARM) based artist whose practice has centred on reconstructing and reimagining discarded materials from the home. For the past 21 years her primary art material has been domestic needlework and she regards her practice as a silent collaboration with the original makers.

Louise's work has been included in many local and international exhibitions, and her work is held in public collections in Australia and private collections in Australia, Malaysia, India and the USA. She has held artist residencies in Malaysia, France, Mexico, Spain and Australia.

In October 2024, she released a monograph of her reclaimed textile works, titled LOUISE SAXTON cut & pinned, which will be for sale in the bookstore on the day and can be signed by the artist. Louise has been a regular collaborator with The Johnston Collection since 2016.

What is provided:

A workshop kit to use in class and take home, which includes: a pair of sharp scissors, lace-pins, embroidery hoop, bias binding and nylon tulle.

What you'll need to bring:

Embroidered and/or lace linens (doilies, tea cloths, tray cloths, tablecloths etc) that are no longer in use or, have been collected from local opportunity shops or flea markets. Louise will also supply some of her own ‘stash’ to dip into, but participants are required to bring items that they are prepared to cut up and reimagine. This adds a deeper understanding of Louise’s art practice and deeper personal meaning to your reclaimed needlework ‘memento monogram’.

Your ticket includes:

- Expert instruction from artist Louise Saxton

- An intimate learning experience (no more than 10 participants)

- A workshop kit and your creation to take home

- Tea or Market Lane coffee throughout the day

- A light lunch

- A glass of wine

For information about Louise Saxton's work please visit her website: https://www.louisesaxton.com/