For May’s Family Day we have a full day of activities starting on Saturday morning!

Tsumugi weaving is a traditional Japanese craft inspired by the Mingei movement and developed by Living National Treasure Munehiro Rikizo. Join Munehiro’s granddaughter Tomo Yoshizawa for a deep dive in the design process of these unique textiles, as she showcases sketchbooks, weaving designs and sample threads alongside fabric from the Munehiro workshop. This is talk and demonstration (non participatory) from 10am to 12pm.

Then at 1pm, textile artist Mika Sembongi is hosting family sashiko workshops. The term sashiko means ‘little stabs’. Traditionally used for reinforcing or repairing clothes and damaged fabrics, the sashiko technique is now often used for decoration. Our Art Without Heroes: Mingei exhibition has some beautiful examples of sashiko, used to decorate a kimono and increase the durability of a pair of boots and clothing worn by rural workers. Mika will introduce this artform and teach you how to make a sashiko bookmark to take home.

Activites are suitable for children aged 5+ years.

All materials will be provided.

Activities will take place in Gallery on the First Floor Landing

All children must be accompanied by an adult.