In this two-hour workshop, educators, artists, and designers will explore fashion as evidence of labor, migration, value, and survival through both critical discussion and hands-on creation.

Grounded in the Pioneer Works exhibition The Endless Garment: Atlantic Basin, participants will examine how garments function as archives of social, economic, and cultural meaning—beyond aesthetics. After a guided discussion of key works in the exhibition, participants will create an “evidence scarf” using reclaimed materials and will reflect on how tactile processes can support deeper learning. This workshop aims to offer participants adaptable frameworks for integrating fashion, textiles, and material culture into their own lifestyles and practices.

Participants are encouraged to bring their own sewing machine or borrow one if they can't bring their own. All fabric, materials, and tools will be provided.
The workshop is led by fashion designer, author, and educator Lesley Ware, whose practice centers on upcycling as an instrument for storytelling and cultural connection.

This class is part of Continuing Education, our adult education program that provides an opportunity for participants to learn from our current and alumni Artists-in-Residence and intimately engage with their work through accessible entrypoints.