On the 22nd of June, we had the pleasure of partnering with designer Tihara Smith to deliver a free embroidery workshop for young people aged 16+ to celebrate Windrush Day 2024. With support from Southwark Council’s Windrush 75 Commemoration Fund, we’re are pleased to be able to offer 10 free spaces for this workshop for young people aged 16+. 

Tihara Smith is a fashion designer and textile artist who specialises in raffia embroidery. Tihara developed her raffia embroidery technique when creating her Windrush-inspired graduate collection in 2018. An outfit from this collection was acquired by the Museum of London in 2021 to help preserve and tell the Windrush story to present and future visitors.

Tihara is passionate about celebrating her heritage and sharing her love of Caribbean culture through her work. In this workshop, she will teach you the basics of raffia embroidery and help you create your own beautiful piece of art taking inspiration from your heritage and identity.

The workshop celebrates Windrush Day, which recognises the pivotal moment in British history when thousands of people from the Caribbean arrived in the UK to help rebuild the country after the war. Attendees learnt about the Windrush Generation, Caribbean culture, and crafts.

Raffia Embroidery and Its History

Raffia embroidery is a unique and intricate form of textile art that uses fibres from the raffia palm, primarily found in tropical regions of Africa, Madagascar, and the Philippines. The raffia palm produces long, pliable fibres that can be dyed in various colours, making them ideal for weaving and embroidery. Historically, raffia has played a significant role in many African cultures. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Kuba people are renowned for their exquisite raffia cloth, which has been produced for centuries. Kuba textiles, often used in ceremonial garments and as currency, are characterized by their geometric patterns and complex designs. Each piece is meticulously embroidered by hand, showcasing the skill and creativity of the artisans.

The use of raffia in embroidery extends beyond Africa. In Madagascar, raffia is woven into hats, bags, and mats, with intricate embroidery adding decorative touches. In the Philippines, raffia fibres are incorporated into traditional garments and accessories, blending Indigenous techniques with modern designs. Raffia embroidery continues to evolve and is influenced by contemporary fashion and art. Designers worldwide are incorporating raffia into their collections, appreciating its sustainable and versatile qualities. This enduring craft not only preserves cultural heritage but also supports local economies and promotes sustainable practices in the fashion industry. Raffia embroidery exemplifies the rich history and cultural significance of this versatile material, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of artisans across the globe.

About Windrush Day

Windrush Day, celebrated annually on June 22nd in the United Kingdom, commemorates the arrival of the HMT Empire Windrush at Tilbury Docks in 1948. This day marks the beginning of post-war migration from the Caribbean to the UK, a significant moment in British history that shaped the nation's cultural and social landscape. The arrival of the Empire Windrush brought nearly 500 passengers from Jamaica, many of whom were ex-servicemen who had fought for Britain during World War II. They were invited to help rebuild the country, fill labour shortages and contribute to recovery efforts. This wave of migration, known as the Windrush Generation, continued throughout the 1950s and 1960s, bringing thousands of Caribbean men and women to British shores.

Windrush Day was established in 2018 to recognize and honour the contributions of the Windrush Generation and their descendants to British society. It is a day to celebrate their rich cultural heritage, resilience, and the positive impact they have had on various aspects of British life, including the NHS, public transport, and the arts. The day also serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by the Windrush Generation, including discrimination and the controversial Windrush scandal, which saw many individuals wrongly detained, denied legal rights, and threatened with deportation. Windrush Day encourages reflection on these issues and promotes a commitment to justice and equality.

All young participants, aged 16 and over, who attended the workshop rated it a 5 out of 5. They expressed immense enjoyment and satisfaction with the experience, highlighting that they not only learned new embroidery skills but also felt a sense of pride in their creative achievements. The workshop's focus on celebrating personal identity and cultural heritage through the art of raffia embroidery was particularly well-received. Many participants are now eager to explore more creative workshops in the future, reflecting the workshop's inspirational and educational impact.

This workshop was been developed by Tihara Smith in partnership with Hotel Elephant and funded by the Southwark Council Windrush 75 Commemoration Fund.