Fondation opale
2025 A textile painting and embroidery workshop inspired by Aboriginal art.
CONTEXT
Developed for Fondation Opale, this monographic workshop explored painting and embroidery through the visual language of Clifford Possum Tjapaltjarri’s Fire Dreaming (1996). Participants translated elements of the artwork into a textile practice, combining textile paint, pattern and hand embroidery on fabric.
MY ROLE
I was responsible for the concept and pedagogical development of the workshop, from researching the reference artwork and designing the creative process to selecting materials and preparing the technical demonstrations. During the session, I introduced textile painting and basic embroidery techniques, guiding participants through their individual compositions.
AUDIENCE
Designed as an introductory, accessible workshop, the session welcomed up to 15 participants with no previous embroidery or textile-painting experience required. The methodology encouraged participants to observe, interpret and experiment, transforming visual references from the exhibition into their own handmade textile pieces.
STEP 01 — OBSERVE & DISCOVER
Participants begin by observing Fire Dreaming by Clifford Possum Tjapaltjarri, exploring its visual language, symbols, colours and relationship with the Racines exhibition.
STEP 02 — INTERPRET & DESIGN
Each participant translates their observations into a personal composition through intuitive painting, simplified forms and the selection of a limited colour palette.
STEP 03 — PAINT & EMBROIDER
The design is transferred onto fabric using textile paint, while embroidery introduces texture, rhythm and detail through different stitches and layered marks.
STEP 04 — CREATE YOUR OWN PIECE
The process culminates in an individual textile work that reflects each participant’s interpretation, combining observation, experimentation and personal expression.
