$20
Arpilleras: Women's Political Resistance through Applique
April 8th | 11:00am ET
I’ve traveled to Chile and seen for myself these powerful “cloths of resistance.” I have read everything I can get my hands on about arpilleras, their tragic beginnings and the fearless and tenacious spirit of the women who crafted them. I’ll share it all with you in this fascinating presentation.
- 90-minute Zoom presentation with Q&A
- Photos of past and present arpilleras shown and discussed.


Themes
Early arpilleras depict scenes of terror, violence, and poverty at the hands of the military dictatorship. Yet, hope translates through the bright colors the women used to create their compositions.
Solidarity Art
Learn how arpilleras came to be shortly after the military coup in 1973. We will journey through nearly two tumultuous decades of Chilean history and politics, all while appreciating the quilt-like textiles created by the mothers, sisters, and daughters of the disappeared. I’ll tell you all about the textile art Chile’s impoverished women used to help turn the tide on Pinochet’s oppressive regime.

Building Community through Sewing
There is a lot to pack into this impressive tale of girl power during horrific circumstances. You will be “wowed” over and over again at the personal stories I include, the meanings I uncover behind each tapestry, and how the arpilleristas perservered despite minimal supplies, time, energy, and money.
$20
Arpilleras: Political Resistance through Applique Textiles
Join me on the journey. Be inspiried. Be moved. Be encouraged. Let the stories of these brave arpilleristas stimulate creativity and resourcefulness in your own sewing projects.
