Open for Art 2026:‘I am..’ blackwork embroidery bookmark workshop

Join artist Charlotte Hollis in this exploration in historic blackwork embroidery and self-description. In this 2-hour workshop, you will reflect on how to describe yourself in one word to finish the sentence ‘I am..’. You’ll then stitch an Elizabethan blackwork pattern that calls to you to complete your bookmark. Just bring yourself as you’ll leave the workshop with all the materials and knowledge you need to finish your piece at home.

A relaxed evening session where everyone is welcome, needle novices and embroidery experts alike. Based on Charlotte’s large blackwork and reflection piece called ‘The Lady Ratcliffe Project’, you will be encouraged to think positively about yourself; choosing a word from a bank of patterns, or asking Charlotte to pattern a word of your choice. You’ll then choose an extant historic blackwork pattern and reflect on your ‘I am..’ sentence through the meditative rhythm of blackwork. Charlotte will provide you with the materials, patterns and gentle encouragement needed to create your piece.

This workshop is for adults. (14 plus welcome with an adult)

All the events at the Open for Art Festival are free to attend, there is an option to add a donation to help support the festival if you would like to and feel able to.

If you can no longer attend please let us know as places are limted and we can offer your space to someone else.

About the artist

Charlotte Hollis is a neurodivergent textile artist, exploring historic embroidery techniques through modern materials, imagery and sensibilities. She will give a brief introduction of blackwork, its historic uses and its place in her work, before guiding you through the practice.

OPEN FOR ART

19 JUNE - 28 JUNE 2026

REFLECT This year marks 10 years of Open for Art — a decade of artists, makers, communities, ideas and shared experiences in Reading’s largest town centre creative festival. As we celebrate this milestone, our theme invites everyone to pause and consider how creativity emerges from people coming together — experimenting, making, and reflecting. Our theme for 2026 is REFLECT.

For 10 days, we’re inviting Reading to slow down and seek out pop-up art in shops and businesses, encounter artists as they work, take part in creative sessions, and join conversations about how reflection shapes artistic practice.

Come and REFLECT with us this summer.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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