Workshop Series: Punching Bag Embroidery

Over the course of three Thursday night sessions, on Oct. 1, 8, & 15, participants will embroider the canvas covers of life-sized punching bags to be installed as part of the upcoming 2027 exhibition Materfamilias. Participants will use simple chain stitches, following drawings created by Elsa. As each cover gradually fills with thread, the individual contributions will become part of a larger sculptural installation, reflecting the strength, vulnerability, and resilience woven through acts of caregiving. These workshops create space for reflection, conversation, and making together. While rooted in experiences of parenting, the project embraces a broader understanding of care, welcoming anyone who has nurtured, supported, or carried responsibility for another person: parents, stepparents, adoptive parents, grandparents, chosen family, partners, siblings, friends, and caregivers of all kinds. No embroidery experience is necessary. All materials will be provided, and Elsa will guide participants through the stitching process. Because each embroidered punching bag is created over multiple sessions, participants are asked to commit to attending three workshops. Registration for this workshop series, from 5 to 7 PM on Thursday, Oct. 1, 8, & 15, is free. About ArtYard ArtYard is an incubator for creative expression and a catalyst for collaborations that reveal the transformational power of art. We are an interdisciplinary alternative contemporary art center comprised of an exhibition space, theater, and residency program, dedicated to presenting transformative artwork, fostering unexpected collaborations, and incubating original new work. Photo and Video Consent By registering for this event, you are giving ArtYard permission to use photos and video on our website and social media. You will also be added to ArtYard's mailing list so that we can contact you with information related to this and future events.