BOCES ARTS-IN-EDUCATION / EXPLORATORY ENRICHMENT
PROGRAM DETAILS



Program Title

Patchwork - Unity in Diversity: A Tapestry of Many Voices
 
Provider Name
Shayee Arts LLC
 
Oluwaseyi Awoyomi

Huntington , NY 11743
Phone:
646-841-6819
Email:
shayeeo@gmail.com
Website:
www.shayee.org

Program Description
Yoruba-Inspired Patchwork, Embroidery & Adornment. No thread is strong enough to stand alone, but when woven together, we become a masterpiece. In this workshop, we explore the concept of Unity in Diversity. Just as traditional Yoruba Adire fabrics are composed of individual motifs—each with its own secret meaning and history—our community is made of unique individuals with their own stories. Participants will dive into the world of one-of-a-kind, hand-designed Yoruba textiles. By cutting, layering, and "infusing" these fabrics with intricate embroidery, stitch patterns, and traditional beads, each artist creates a personal "patch" of identity. Whether these patches remain individual treasures or are joined into a larger collective tapestry, they serve as vibrant conversation starters about where we come from and how we fit together. Middle School to High School (Enrichment & Arts Programs) The Big Idea: "My Story, Our Strength." The Experience: Students will learn that "scraps" aren't waste—they are the building blocks of something new. They’ll experiment with bold colors and learn how to use needle and thread to "write" their own symbols alongside traditional Adire motifs. Creative Spark: Encourages social-emotional learning by discussing how individual patches contribute to a "stronger" classroom community. College & University (Art, Design & Sociology) The Big Idea: "Textile as Testimony." The Experience: A more technical exploration of stitch patterns and the sociology of Yoruba "story-fabrics." Students will analyze the weight of cultural symbolism and use mixed-media (beads, adornments, and Adire) to create a sophisticated decorative piece. Creative Spark: Focuses on the "Conversation Starter" aspect—using art to bridge cultural gaps and spark dialogue on heritage. Professional Development (Creative Practice & Educators) The Big Idea: "Building Connected Communities." The Experience: For educators and pros, this workshop is about the "tether." How do we use tactile arts to foster belonging? Participants will practice the "swap" of fabric pieces to build trust and explore how to use patchwork as a mindfulness and collective reflection tool. Creative Spark: Practical application of cultural education through hands-on making. Choose Your Canvas Participants can choose the form their "Collective Masterpiece" takes: Pre-Stretched Canvas: Perfect for a gallery-style wall hanging. Throw Pillow Cover: Creating art that lives in the home and invites comfort. 20x20" Fabric Panel: A versatile "tapestry" square for wall décor or future garment integration. The Language of Adire: Understanding the history and symbolism of traditional Yoruba motifs. Tactile Techniques: Cutting, layering, and infusing fabrics with hand-embroidery and decorative stitch patterns. Adornment: Incorporating beads and traditional embellishments to add texture and "royalty" to the work. Cultural Significance: Celebrating the uniqueness of hand-designed, one-of-a-kind textiles in a mass-produced world.
 

Categories
Visual Arts (VA), ,
 



Additional Resources 
There are no evaluations available for this program.

Program Recommendations
Grades
7,8,9,10,11,12,Professional Development



See Video  
Arts Standards
1,2,3,4


Other Standards 



Curriculum Connections 
Arts: Dance, Media Arts, Music, Theatre, Visual Arts , , ,



Culturally Responsive 
1,3



Cost 
Cost Single: 1800
Cost Multiple: 250/HR


Duration
180 minutes