Report from meeting 10th October 2009- Ruby Porter – ‘Embroidery in Bangladesh’
As usual Ruby gave a brilliant talk and slide show on her long term project, the rural community in Sreepur Village, Bangladesh. Despite some very harrowing slides of abused girls and the extreme poverty, Ruby managed as always to instil humour and joy into her presentation. She speaks from her heart, therefore managing to convey the warmth that she and her husband have for the project. It was very interesting to see how the refuge and workshops have developed over time, and she told us of her hopes and unfortunately also frustrations for the future.
The girls and children normally live on the premises, but it is the ultimate aim that eventually after learning new skills they can be integrated back into their own communities, and be able to support themselves.
The women and girls make their own paper, straw threads, and embroidered hangings, bags and waistcoats. They also dye threads and hand-weave them into beautiful fabrics for scarves, of which some are embroidered and beaded. Ruby also had some lovely handmade cards for sale. All the proceeds go directly to the Village.
The meeting really inspired our members, and many commentated on what a great talk it had been.
Report by Sue Chisnall – Joint Chairman.
Photographs by John Clark
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