This activity was kindly submitted by Naomi Cotrufo.
“I am a recent graduate from the University of Huddersfield, graduating with a First BA (Hons) degree in Textiles Crafts, specializing in Mixed Media Embroidery.
My drawing and sketchbook work have become key in my process and practice and this is an aspect I would like to take further. My embroidery work is quirky and unique using contemporary and traditional methods to produce pieces based on childhood memories and growing up, a theme which is consistent throughout my work – using the past to inspire the present, by story telling with pictures through stitches. My work uses a lot of re-cycled paper/ card/ scraps of letters and envelopes, pieces of ribbon, stamps and stickers. My themes are mainly based on favourite childhood memories, for example favourite sweet from local sweet shops, or a trip out to the seaside with grandparents.
A simple “story telling in pictures” activity for children
Encourage children to collect bits and pieces they find around their home to create a collage, or as i like to call it a “Stitched-Story-Collage”.
Collect items like stamps, sweet wrappers, ribbons, fabric scraps, paper scraps, recycled letters/envelopes etc, thinking as widely as possible, and also ask family and friends to collect any materials that would be of use.
Your aim is to tell a story through a picture, by making a collage with the elements you collect. Perhaps the story you tell can also be inspired by something which has happened to you. Once you have your materials and memories, that’s when the story begins.
Assemble your elements on paper. you can glue or pin them in place, and also use simple running stitches to stitch them in place. Layer the collage elements for a rich effect, and don’t forget you can use pens and paint to add further colour/detail.”
See also
