Crafting Memories at Post-Grad Community’s Heirloom Gift-Giving Festival
- Written byWinifred Ahupa
- Published date 18 December 2024
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Written by Winifred Ahupa, MA Global Collaborative Design Practice course at Camberwell College of Arts and Post-Grad Community Ambassador.
To borrow from Andy Williams, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” and nowhere was this truer than at Post-Grad Community’s Heirloom Gift-Giving Festival. Held at Camberwell College of Arts Canteen, the event brought together staff, students, and alumni for an afternoon of festive creativity, skill-sharing, and warm camaraderie. This festival was particularly special as it coincided with the 10th anniversary of the Post-Grad Community, marked by the unveiling of The Family Heirloom—a collection of unique designs created by postgraduate students, alumni, and staff.
The room buzzed with excitement as attendees gathered around workshops hosted by three talented artists, each bringing their unique perspective to the art of gift-making. The scent of freshly baked mince pies and the comforting aroma of hot beverages added a homely touch to the already lively atmosphere.
Crafting with Nature: Sarah Taylor’s Sustainable Christmas Cards
Sarah Taylor, a process-led artist whose practice is grounded in everyday materials and subconscious creation, shared her love for sustainable artistry. At her workshop, participants learnt to make Christmas cards using homemade oak apple ink, a rich and earthy dye derived from natural ingredients. Each participant left with a recipe for the ink, ensuring they could recreate the experience at home.
Sarah's simple yet impactful approach reminded us all of the beauty in everyday materials. “It’s wonderful to see how something as unassuming as oak apples can become part of a heartfelt gift,” remarked one participant, delighted with their handcrafted card.
Turning Waste into Wonder: V Hayward’s Upcycled Ornaments
Multimedia artist and theatre designer V Hayward invited attendees to transform packaging, bottles, and other found objects into stunning seasonal decorations. Guided by V’s ethos of environmentally conscious storytelling, participants crafted fantastical ornaments inspired by the shapes and colours of the materials they brought along.
One guest marvelled at their tiny Christmas tree made from discarded bottle caps and cardboard, exclaiming, “I can’t believe something so simple could become this beautiful!” V’s workshop was a powerful reminder of the creative possibilities hidden in the items we often overlook.
Knitting Connections: Winifred Ahupa’s Mindful Knitting
I had the pleasure of hosting a Mindful Knitting Interest Group workshop myself, introducing participants to the joys of knitting and crocheting. As a designer and maker, my focus has always been on fostering community and encouraging intergenerational and intercultural connections through participatory practices. Seeing first-time knitters proudly show off their creations was a highlight of my day.
One guest, who had never crocheted before, beamed as they held up their first attempt, saying, “I never thought I could make something like this!” Moments like these encapsulate the spirit of the festival—creating, learning, and connecting.
A Festive Celebration of Community
The afternoon was filled with laughter, conversation, and the clinking of cups as guests chatted with artists about their inspirations and techniques. The workshops offered more than just crafting skills; they provided an opportunity for reflection and connection. As one participant aptly put it, “It feels like listening to a podcast while making something beautiful. I’m really having a great time.”
The Heirloom Gift-Giving Festival wasn’t just about handmade gifts; it was about the memories and relationships built along the way. This sense of community is at the heart of UAL’s Postgraduate Community, and it was a joy to contribute to such a meaningful event.
As the day came to a close, participants left with their creations in hand, hearts full of cheer, and a renewed appreciation for the power of art to bring people together. This year’s festival was undoubtedly one to remember, and I’m already looking forward to next year’s celebration of craft, creativity, and connection.
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Post-Grad Stories
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UAL Post-Grad Community
Established in 2013, Post-Grad Community is an inclusive platform for all UAL postgraduate students to share work, find opportunities and connect with other creatives within the UAL and beyond. Find out more.