Natural dyeing and traditional weaving workshop in Laos

Culture come from place; material origins sourced from local environment; craftmanship and intergenerational women relationship and connections through maker’s hands. I had the pleasure of spending 2 weeks in Laos with master weaver Khaisy Sophabmixay facilitated by artist Samorn Sanixay exploring the transformative nature of habitat, social architecture and the identity of a place through natural dyeing and traditional weaving process. We focussed on the immediate influences of local ingredients at the farm in Vientiane and in Luang Prabang; its identity (community relationships) and the impact of change/ makeshift of machine-made vs handmade and South East Asia’s cultural markers and its significance within our contemporary settlement today. This opportunity helped fulfil my skill gap and potentials within material manipulation with professional execution.

This workshop was made possible by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries.