Labour of Love: A Community Quilt Celebrates Motherhood in Southend-On-Sea
On Saturday 27th April Elevator Arts were thrilled to announce the unveiling of Labour of Love, a captivating community quilt created by mothers from across Southend-On-Sea, at a celebratory event hosted by Metal Southend at Chalkwell Hall.
Labour of Love was a joyful participatory textiles project exploring the experience of motherhood through connection, conversation and creativity.
Mothers with newborns and young babies enthusiastically participated in pop-up quilting and conversation sessions held at mother and baby groups across Southend including A Better Start Southend, Bump To Breast, Cake Club and Do It Like A Mother.
Under the expert guidance of textile artist Laura Johnson and facilitator Lauren Eve, around 30 mothers honed their quilting skills and delved into themes surrounding motherhood. Utilising reclaimed and discarded fabrics, the mothers collectively crafted a stunning quilt adorned with embroidered quotes reflecting their experiences.
Lauren Eve & Laura Johnson with the Labour of Love Quilt
The quilt represents solidarity and support for mothers who may sometimes feel isolated. Through Labour of Love, the creative team aimed to create a tangible reminder that no mother walks alone on her journey. The mums were empowered to create something truly special that celebrates the beauty and resilience of motherhood.
“It was such a privilege to be able to work on this project. The way that the ladies opened up to us whilst sewing and chatting was amazing! ”
“I found the exhibition very interesting and inspiring reading how much care and work has gone into the quilt. It truly is a Labour of Love.”
— Audience feedback
Labour of Love was developed in partnership with Labyrinth House Family Centre in Westcliff-On-Sea and supported by Metal, Southend. The project was gratefully funded by Southend 's Community Investment Board.
Elevator Arts would like to extend heartfelt thanks to all the mothers that took part in the project and the staff & organisations that supported us to make this project possible.
